Inter Milan is set to face Paris Saint-Germain on May 31st at the Allianz Arena in Munich for the 2024-25 UEFA Champions League final, a match widely anticipated as the season`s pinnacle event. Inter is aiming to secure their fourth Champions League title, building on past victories in 1964, 1965, and their historic treble-winning campaign in 2010 under Jose Mourinho. Their most recent final appearance was in 2023, where they were defeated by Manchester City. Now, two years later, Simone Inzaghi`s side returns to the final stage against Luis Enrique`s PSG. The French club is playing in only their second Champions League final, having lost to Bayern Munich in 2020, and is still seeking their first-ever triumph in the competition. Let`s delve into Inter`s prospects and the factors that could lead them to victory:
Inter`s Strengths
- Possess an experienced squad, with many players having featured in the 2023 final.
- Could be the final opportunity for certain key players to win this trophy, potentially boosting motivation.
- Have demonstrated the capability to overcome top European opponents.
Inter`s Weaknesses
- Limited squad depth compared to some elite clubs.
- Lack a single player capable of consistently deciding games entirely on their own.
- Have shown some defensive vulnerabilities, conceding several goals in recent stages.
Why Inter is Poised to Win the Champions League
1. Enhanced European Experience: Inter approaches the 2025 Champions League final with a significantly different outlook and increased experience compared to their run to the final in 2023. The team`s consistent progress under Simone Inzaghi since 2021 has cultivated greater confidence. Their path through challenging stages of the competition this season has solidified their belief, making this return to the final feel less like a surprise achievement and more like a earned step, equipping them with a more assured mindset.
2. Lautaro Martinez in Peak Form: Inter`s captain, Lautaro Martinez, has solidified his status as one of the world`s premier strikers this season. He has developed tremendously since the 2023 final, becoming the central figure and the energetic core of the Nerazzurri. His dedication is unquestionable, highlighted by his determined comeback from injury to participate in crucial matches. Having already achieved success on the international stage with Argentina, winning the World Cup and multiple Copa America titles, the Champions League remains the ultimate club ambition driving Martinez.
3. The `Last Dance` Motivation: The 2025 final may represent a `last dance` for certain members of the current Inter squad, as plans under the Oaktree ownership point towards integrating a younger roster in the coming years. While key figures like Lautaro Martinez and coach Simone Inzaghi are expected to be part of the future, which aims for sustainable success unlike the post-2010 period, winning this Champions League title would provide a truly unforgettable culmination for the current era of the team.
