Rafa Benitez has identified Bayern Munich’s weaknesses ahead of Wednesday’s UCL quarter-final second leg clash against Inter.
The former Nerazzuri head coach believes the Serie A leaders must take advantage of Bayern’s vulnerabilities at the San Siro to progress to the last four.
Goals from Lautaro Martinez and Davide Frattesi gave the Italians a fine 2-1 win at the Allianz Arena on April 8. Despite the victory, there is still a long way to go in the tie.
Benitez has also warned Simone Inzaghi’s side against complacency and further believes Inter needs a mental ‘reset’ to ensure that they get the job done.
Furthermore, Benitez has also highlighted the key players ahead of the clash who will be vital if Inter are to beat the Bundesliga giants.
We know the first thing you thought about when you woke up ⏰
It's the day of #InterBayernMonaco 🖤💙#ForzaInter #UCL pic.twitter.com/v36Uxl94gQ— Inter ⭐⭐ (@Inter_en) April 16, 2025
Rafa Benitez On Inter Vs Bayern UCL Clash
Speaking to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Benitez said: “One cannot ignore the success in Munich, but it is true that Inter will need to reset, to avoid thinking that their lead will be enough to manage.
“Inevitably, they will have to pretend that they’re starting from 0-0, to play in a state of mental freedom,” he added.
“The most important thing is the technical aspect, but the tactical strategy is not irrelevant either.
“The first leg confirmed that we are in the presence of two gigantic teams, with personalities that win you over and players who are able to make the difference at any given moment.”
When Benitez was quizzed on who he believes will be the key players on Wednesday, he struggled to name just one as there are plenty of stars on display at the San Siro.
“That’s a question that puts me in difficulty, because it would mean leaving so many out,” Benitez explained.
“Inter are team Lautaro or Thuram in the attacking phase, but also have an amazing Barella and Calhanoglu organising, and defenders who leave their mark.
“Bayern is not just about Kane, they’re not limited to the flair of Sane or that of Olise, who both know how to change the game. Nor the superb ability of Kimmich and Goretzka.”
When asked whether Bayern have any vulnerabilities, Benitez explained that the way in which they conceded both goals in the first leg is solid evidence of that.
“Bayern showed that they can concede and suffer on transitions, both centrally and out wide. If you look at the build-up to both goals, they both came from similar plays, which they will have to look to do again considering the opponent’s vulnerability.”
