Legendary German footballer Lothar Matthäus shared his insights on Inter Milan from his vantage point in Germany. Speaking with Gazzetta dello Sport, he described the team as a unique blend of experienced players and young talents, led by a coach who has discovered the perfect formula. “It’s at the top in all areas, not just in Italy but also in Europe. I’m really pleased with the level my ‘team’ has reached, but this success has been building for a long time. Inter has been competing with everyone for some time now: they’re advancing in the Champions League without needing playoffs and can go far in Europe. Moreover, they can certainly win the Serie A title again in this increasingly interesting and balanced league.”
Matthäus expressed his admiration for Italian football, stating, “Yes, I follow it generally, especially on Sundays when I’m at home. Your football continues to grow, and the league is very balanced, with surprises like Lazio and Fiorentina and Napoli’s comeback. But from what I see from the outside, perhaps the strongest team has become Atalanta; just look at what they do even in the Champions League.”
Discussing Inter’s recent European matches, Matthäus noted that while RB Leipzig has been struggling in the Bundesliga, Bayer Leverkusen poses a more significant threat to Inter. “Leverkusen is much more dangerous: for me, it’s the only team that has any chance of challenging Bayern Munich, which has returned to its level.”
Despite Leverkusen not appearing as dominant as last year, Matthäus believes they have strengthened. “They have the same coach, the same players, and have added quality pieces: they should be even stronger! Last year everything went well; they had the confidence to win even at the last minute. This season is different, and I see them improving significantly.”
Hakan Calhanoglu’s role at Inter was highlighted as crucial by Matthäus. “Yes, I see him as a key player. Before joining Inter, he didn’t make a difference at this level, but now he’s found the perfect club for him and a perfect connection with the coach and teammates: they truly believe in Hakan, and that makes a difference.” He further elaborated on Inzaghi’s impact: “Not only did he find him the right position, but over the last year and a half he has made him perform at the highest level of his career.”
Inter’s success is attributed to more than just individual brilliance. “To achieve these results for many years means that the squad is complete as a whole, not just the midfield. Everyone knows what to do from number one to number 22.” Matthäus emphasized that this depth is essential for sustained performance.
The Lautaro-Thuram partnership was also discussed. Despite Thuram scoring more goals this season than Lautaro, Matthäus emphasized that their balance remains unchanged. “The duo works perfectly; each one always needs the other.” He compared their synergy to successful partnerships seen in other leagues.
On young defender Yann Bisseck’s growth, Matthäus remarked that while he may not be making headlines yet, serious discussions about his potential are underway. “I don’t see him much in the headlines yet, but people are starting to talk seriously about him.”
Reflecting on his memories with Fiorentina, Matthäus recalled an unusual red card incident during a celebratory match: “I got sent off for a minor reaction; it was rare for me.”
Finally, Matthäus commented on Borussia Dortmund’s current form and praised Bayern Munich’s resurgence under new leadership. He stated that Dortmund has shown both strengths and weaknesses: “Dortmund has two faces—home and away. After many changes, it seems Sahin has found balance.”
Regarding changes in European football formats, Matthäus expressed enthusiasm for seeing high-profile matches earlier in competitions: “I love it! When would we have seen a Liverpool-Real Madrid so spectacular in November? Usually, we would have to wait until the semifinals or even finals.”
In conclusion, Matthäus reaffirmed his belief that football remains a contact sport and expressed skepticism about over-reliance on VAR for certain decisions: “(Laughs) No, I say this because I think football is still a contact sport. For that action, there’s no need to go to VAR.”
