After defeats against Bologna, the Milan derby, and Roma, Simone Inzaghi’s team must change course: two big stars have recently returned, but they have no choice but to play. Inzaghi will also have his dream attacking duo back.

Opportunities are running out, and three consecutive defeats are enough. After Bologna, the derby, and Roma, there is no time left: The return to the path of victory must happen in the fourth attempt, in the toughest possible test, tomorrow night in Barcelona. Either we will see the real Inter, or a season that could have been memorable will turn into a nightmare with “zero trophies.”

Inzaghi is now rallying his forces, working on mentality and tactics, as his experience at Inter has shown that in difficult moments, he and his players perform at their best. But the current crisis is new for everyone, as Inter had never experienced such a situation under Inzaghi. The last time the Nerazzurri suffered three consecutive defeats in Serie A and cup competitions was in 2017 under Stefano Pioli, when the team’s goals were completely different.

Today’s Inter, with weakened morale and tired legs, can still secure the golden ticket and reach the Munich final to fight for the most beautiful trophy. But there is only one way: In the next 48 hours, they must become the real Inter again. The same team that has been admired in Europe since September and has made teams like Manchester City, Arsenal, and Bayern Munich taste its power.

After eliminating Bayern, captain Lautaro Martinez proudly said that Inter has “unmatched courage. We don’t surrender with character, heart, and mind. We suffered, but we showed we can do great things.” He and his teammates must prove this tomorrow night at Montjuïc.

Stars and a Puzzle

Of course, key players have an important role. Inzaghi will rely on the stars who started Inter’s cycle of success and the players who have joined the team along the way to continue winning.

Almost the entire starting lineup will be available, including Bastoni and Mkhitaryan, who were suspended in the match against Roma. These two are the second and fourth most-used players by Inzaghi this season, and with rest in the previous game, they come to Montjuïc with better readiness—a point that is not insignificant these days. Inzaghi had to use stars like Lautaro, Çalhanoğlu, and Barella fully against Roma. But the issue goes beyond physical readiness; it’s about the players’ mentality.

Inzaghi expects these leaders to show the way more than ever. The experience and sacrifice that have defined Inter’s path in this season’s Champions League are the best shield against the talent and energy of Flick’s young team. But there is a puzzle on the left side of the defense: Dimarco, who has never fallen so low and was at fault for goals by Harry Kane, Orsolini, Jović, and Solé, has made Inzaghi think about using Carlos Augusto against Barcelona’s young star Lamine Yamal. This is no longer a simple choice; Augusto, who shone at Allianz Arena, has a better chance of starting.

Denzel and Marcus

Dumfries and Thuram will also be on the plane to Spain. Their Barcelona-Inter story has started from different angles: Dumfries came on in the second half against Roma, and Thuram was training with the team. But their paths may cross in Montjuïc.

Dumfries, after 30 minutes against Roma, is ready to start. Thuram is also moving forward with confidence. He trained successfully yesterday and will train with the team today before heading to Barcelona. Inzaghi will definitely use him, but how is unclear. His presence from the start, like in the match against Bayern or other big nights for Inter, is not unlikely. If we are to see the real Inter, leaving out the “Thu-La” (Thuram-Lautaro) duo is impossible.