Inter held Manchester City to a 0-0 draw on Wednesday night in their opening 2024-25 Champions League game. Here are the player ratings.
Sommer 6.5 – Didn’t need to pull off impressive saves but he looked solid and reliable every time he was called upon, especially in the closing minutes when he was tested more than once.
Bisseck 6.5 – He was solid defensively and took initiative going forward, especially in the first half. (74′ Pavard 6)
Acerbi 7 – Another great defensive performance against Haaland, as he proved to be back to his best level after the surgery he underwent over the summer.
Bastoni 6 – He was focused and limited Savinho’s initiatives down his flank, although he didn’t get the freedom to make his presence felt in the last third as he usually does.
Darmian 6.5 – The Italian proved an extremely reliable option on the right, as usual. However, that back-heel in front of City’s goal will probably linger in Inzaghi’s mind for a long time… (74′ Dumfries 6)
Barella 7 – His tireless run allowed him to be a constant support for his teammates, both in the defensive and offensive phase.
Calhanoglu 6.5 – His return in the starting XI was immediately felt, as Inter’s play looked more flowing, starting from the build-up. (81′ Frattesi N/A)
Zielinski 6.5 – His breaks and ball carries through the hosts’ half were cause of concern for City. (65′ Mkhitaryan 5.5)
Carlos Augusto 6.5 – Forced a save from Ederson at the death of the first half and delivered an overall solid display, making Inter forget about Dimarco’s absence.
Thuram 6 – As much as he looked like a constant threat on the break, he should have been sharper, considering all the times he reached the final third. (65′ Lautaro Martinez 6)
Taremi 6.5 – He was the glue between Inter’s midfield and attack, managing every ball with calm and smartness.
Coach: Inzaghi 6.5 – His bold decisions for the starting line-up eventually paid off, although his team lacked the precision in the last third and cutting-edge required to win games like this. However, Inter’s growth in personality compared to the 2023 Champions League final in Istanbul was evident, especially in the first half.
Manchester City: Ederson 6.5; Lewis 6, Dias 6.5, Akanji 6.5, Gvardiol 7; Rodri 6.5; Savinho 5.5 (46′ Foden 6), Silva 5.5 (80′ Doku N/A), De Bruyne 6 (46′ Gundogan 5), Grealish 6.5; Haaland 5. Coach: Guardiola 5.5
If inter had a top striker, they would have won the game. Taremi was useless.
Inzaghi should not replace Calhanoglu, which caused the last 10 minutes a bit shaky.
Also they should sell Frattesi, who doesn’t fit the coach’s tactic.
Still the strongest team in Serie A but the squad is too old, especially nobody knows how long Calhanoglu could play at the highest level. So is Acerbi.