After a thrilling weekend of Serie A football, which concluded last night with Cagliari’s dramatic 3-2 victory over Parma, the prestigious Champions League returns today and tomorrow. This European showdown follows the “special” opening round and will continue with the traditional schedule, culminating in the Europa League and Conference League matches, all set for Thursday.
The Milan clubs are immediately on the pitch amidst a media frenzy surrounding the arrest of the leaders of both fan groups. This incident significantly impacts the image of both clubs, particularly Inter, following revelations from yesterday, which include numerous interceptions implicating coach Simone Inzaghi and several top executives of the Nerazzurri. It appears that there has been considerable pressure from the Inter ultras on the club, coaching staff, and players. Investigators are now working to determine whether there were any collusive behaviors from the Nerazzurri’s officials or if they were merely victims of threats of possible retaliation.
The outcome of this critical issue—substantial rather than merely formal—will influence the club’s standing with both sports and regular justice systems. The accusations leading to the arrests of 19 ultras leaders from Inter and Milan are severe, involving mafia infiltration within the San Siro fan sections. According to La Repubblica, Inter could face severe repercussions, including potential administration, due to repeated and documented contacts with their ultras during the 2023 Champions League Final against Manchester City. Meanwhile, Milan seems to be in a more stable position at this stage of the investigation.
While the legal proceedings unfold off the field, fans will return to cheer at San Siro tonight at 21:00 CET as Inter takes on Red Star Belgrade. This match is crucial for the Nerazzurri, who are coming off a valuable point earned against Manchester City and are now expected to secure a full victory against a theoretically weaker opponent. Inzaghi is contemplating significant rotation, with at least four changes expected from the starting eleven that won against Udinese. With a deep squad, the coach has ample options to consider, leading to numerous competitive selections.
On the other hand, the revitalized Milan under Fonseca faces a tougher challenge. Having excelled in their last three league games (all wins, including the derby), the Rossoneri had a disappointing start in Europe with a heavy home defeat to Liverpool. They now must secure a result against Bayer Leverkusen, managed by Xabi Alonso, who recently clinched the Bundesliga title without losing a single match throughout a triumphant season. Fonseca is uncertain about Morata’s fitness, which may allow Abraham to start. All eyes will be on Leao’s brilliance, capable of dismantling any defense on his night, and on Pulisic, who is emerging as a key offensive leader. Pavlovic may return to the starting lineup in defense. Leverkusen, a well-drilled team with incredible pace, boasts Xhaka as a superb midfield leader, alongside the sparkling talent of Wirtz, who shone during last season’s successful campaign for Bayer.
Among today’s other Champions League matches, a standout fixture features Arteta’s Arsenal taking on Luis Enrique’s PSG in London. Both coaches are disciples of Guardiola and share a philosophy aimed at dominating the game, raising the intrigue of which team will successfully impose their style over a more extensive portion of the match.
