Inter Milan goalkeeper Yann Sommer expressed his eagerness and confidence ahead of the team’s upcoming Champions League match against Manchester City. In a pre-match press conference, Sommer shared his thoughts on the team’s preparation, their start to the season, and the challenge of facing one of Europe’s top teams.
“I can’t wait to play tomorrow’s game. We are prepared, we have worked to the maximum for this type of match, and I’m looking forward to it,” Sommer stated, highlighting the team’s readiness for the high-profile encounter.
Addressing Inter’s start to the season, Sommer acknowledged that the team hasn’t yet reached its full potential but remained optimistic. “So far, I think we haven’t shown our maximum, but that’s okay. It will be a long season, like the past one. It’s normal that at the beginning some situations don’t go as we want, but we can’t wait to start this new tournament.”
When asked about facing Manchester City’s star striker Erling Haaland, Sommer recognized the challenge but emphasized the need to focus on the entire team. “Haaland is one of the best strikers in the world, but we’re facing a very strong team with an exceptional offensive terminal. We need to deliver a great performance tomorrow against one of the best teams in Europe. We’ll have to try to play a great game.”
Sommer, who joined Inter this season, reflected on the team’s recent success and the mentality required for Champions League competition. “It’s difficult for me to think about the 2023 final as I wasn’t there, but last season was fantastic with the Scudetto victory. Now a new year begins, and we don’t expect gifts from our opponents. It will take a lot of work and heart to have a great season in the Champions League, which is also our goal. We need to put more and more energy into it.”
The Swiss goalkeeper also praised the team’s defensive spirit, drawing parallels with what he observed in previous seasons. “Two years ago I was impressed, and last year I saw many things that I saw in that final. Everyone defends their goal as if there was a child there, that’s how it feels. It’s something that strikes me, the ability of each player to give everything for everyone to win. I saw all this last year.”
In conclusion, Sommer expressed his belief in the team’s capabilities against Manchester City. “City is not just Haaland. He receives the balls from his teammates, and we have prepared this match in the best way. I am convinced that we can do well because we have a lot of quality on our side, we defend well, and we know how to keep good distances.”