Legendary Former Inter Milan President Sees Treble Potential in Current Squad
Massimo Moratti, the legendary former president of Inter Milan, has boldly expressed his belief that the current Inter squad has what it takes to win the treble—an unprecedented feat that has only been achieved once in Italian football history by his beloved Nerazzurri in the 2009-10 season. Moratti’s confidence is rooted in the team’s current form and their position in multiple competitions. Inter are currently just a point behind Serie A leaders Napoli and are set to face Juventus in a crucial league match this weekend. Meanwhile, the club is also still alive in the Coppa Italia quarterfinals, where they will clash with Lazio later this month, and are eagerly awaiting their Champions League round of sixteen draw, with potential opponents including AC Milan, Juventus, Feyenoord, or PSV.
A Familiar Path to Glory
Moratti’s tenure as president saw Inter achieve something monumental—winning the treble of the Serie A title, the Coppa Italia, and the Champions League. This achievement remains a benchmark in Italian football, with no other club having managed to replicate it. Reflecting on this historic season, Moratti admitted that the path to glory was fraught with challenges. "In 2009-10, we had been on the verge of elimination already in the group stage," he recalled. "But then we turned it all around in stoppage time in Kyiv with goals from Sneijder and Milito. It was a moment of sheer determination and belief."
The Role of Unique Factors in the Champions League
While Moratti is optimistic about Inter’s chances in the Champions League, he also acknowledges the unpredictable nature of the knockout stages. "Of course, the current Inter team can win the Champions League," he stated. "However, in the Champions League once you get to the knockouts, unique factors come into play." These factors can include anything from individual moments of brilliance to the team’s resilience in high-pressure situations. Moratti’s experience in guiding Inter to their historic treble gives him a keen insight into what it takes to succeed in such a prestigious competition. "You have to get to the few matches that decide everything," he emphasized, underscoring the importance of consistency and mental fortitude.
A Competitive Serie A Title Race
In the Serie A title race, Inter’s chances look promising. They are in close contention with Napoli, who currently lead the table. The upcoming match against Juventus could be a pivotal moment in the league campaign, and Moratti is confident in his team’s ability to overcome such challenges. "Inter have the deepest and most complete squad," he argued. This depth and quality are crucial in a long and grueling season, providing the necessary flexibility to handle multiple competitions and key fixtures. Moratti’s belief in the squad’s potential is not just sentimental; it is based on a realistic assessment of their strengths and the club’s recent performances.
The Challenge of Multiple Derbies
Despite the excitement surrounding the possibility of facing AC Milan in both the Coppa Italia and the Champions League, Moratti expressed a concern. "There’s a risk that we’ll have so many derbies that in the end they won’t feel as special," he noted. Inter and Milan are no strangers to each other, having already met twice in the league this season and in the Supercoppa Italiana final. The frequent clashes between the two Milanese giants could dull the intensity and significance of these matches, which are traditionally some of the most exhilarating in Italian football. However, Moratti also understands that each derby carries its own unique story and can be a defining moment in a team’s pursuit of glory.
A Season of Great Expectations
The current Inter Milan team, under the guidance of coach Simone Inzaghi, is poised for a remarkable season. Moratti’s words serve as a powerful endorsement of their capabilities, drawing parallels to the historic triumph of 2009-10. The club’s depth and completeness, combined with the experience and leadership of key players, make them a formidable force in all competitions. As they face the upcoming challenges in Serie A, the Coppa Italia, and the Champions League, Moratti’s belief adds an extra layer of motivation and expectation. The journey to a treble is never easy, but with the right mindset and a bit of soccer magic, this Inter Milan could etch their names in the history books once again.
