Simone Inzaghi focused on ‘writing a page of history’ as Inter plot final shock

Simone Inzaghi says Internazionale have a “huge opportunity” to write a page in the club’s history by beating Manchester City in Saturday’s Champions League final at Istanbul’s Atatürk Olympic Stadium.

The head coach is conscious that Pep Guardiola’s side will start as firm favourites but urged his players to seize the chance, the club having last claimed the trophy under José Mourinho in 2010.

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“Absolutely, a huge opportunity to write a page of Inter history,” said Inzaghi. “We know how tough it will be and together is the key word. Together we will try to make history.”

Erling Haaland has scored 12 goals in the competition for City in a career total of 35 in 29 games. “We know how strong City are and what a player Haaland is,” Inzaghi said. “We will clearly have a special eye for him. We have set up a strategy, I have prepared a strategy, but it will be the whole of Inter trying to limit not just him but the whole of City.

“We know what kind of match to expect and what we have to do. City right now are probably the best team in the world.

“They have lost very few times but we are aware of our Champions League campaign and we will do our very best. We must make no mistakes.”

Hakan Calhanoglu, who is expected to start for Inter, was born in Germany but opted to play for Turkey owing to his heritage.

Ilkay Gündogan, who was also born in Germany and has Turkish antecedents, plays for Germany. Calhanoglu suggested Turks may prefer him to win the final rather than Gündongan.

“I love Ilkay,” he said. “I respect him so much. I respect his decision to play for Germany. I know it’s very important for two Turks to play in this final. I know Turks will be supporting me. Perhaps for my people it is important that I win.”