Simone Inzaghi warns Inter to expect Arsenal backlash

Football Mad -

Inter Milan manager Simone Inzaghi believes Arsenal will be out for revenge ahead of their Champions League clash at the San Siro.

The Gunners head into the fixture having taken just one point from their last three Premier League matches, and only four days after they suffered a 1-0 defeat at Newcastle.

Inter are unbeaten in their last seven games and have not conceded a goal in Europe so far this term.

But speaking ahead of Wednesday’s tie, Inzaghi warned: “It is likely that they (Arsenal) have reasons for revenge.

“I watched them play against Newcastle, but playing away to them is really tough. It was an interesting match, but we know that we will be facing a side that will want to put on a show.”

Inter are one point adrift of table-topping Napoli in the defence of their Serie title, and they host their rivals on Sunday.

But when asked which match his side needed to win more, Inzaghi moved to hail Mikel Arteta’s team, who are expected to welcome back captain Martin Odegaard after he travelled to Italy following a two-month lay-off with an ankle problem.

“We will need to win both matches,” said Inzaghi. “We know we’re up against two very strong teams, but our focus is on tomorrow.

“Arsenal are very well known, with a great coach like Arteta and a clear identity, aggressive and dynamic.

“They’ve gone toe-to-toe with Manchester City in the last two seasons and they’re one of the strongest sides in Europe. Arsenal are our top priority, last year they went far and are one of the favourites to win the competition.”

Inzaghi saw his side held by Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City (Martin Rickett/PA)

The Nerazzurri were held to a goalless draw at Pep Guardiola’s City in September before winning their next two matches in the Champions League – a 4-0 win against Red Star Belgrade before a late 1-0 triumph at Young Boys.

Inzaghi was asked if he expected a similar test to the fixture at the Etihad Stadium.

“In theory, we’ll try to have the ball as much as possible, but they know how to press offensively and very well,” he replied.

“We know that it’ll be a problem for us when we don’t have the ball, but it’s the same for them when we have the ball.

“With English football we’re talking about a brand of football that everyone likes. It’s fascinating, but I’m really happy at Inter. We’re one of the best sides in Europe.”