Zimpapers Logo

MILAN. — Inter Milan face a big week for their European and domestic ambitions with the visits of both Arsenal and Napoli as the Italian champions try to banish worrying signs of frailty.

Simone Inzaghi’s team are level on seven points with Arsenal in the revamped Champions League and sit handily in the top eight positions which offer direct qualification to the last 16.

On the face of it, Inter Milan are in good nick ahead of today’s game with seven wins in an unbeaten run of eight in all competitions since their only defeat of the season, in September’s Milan derby.

But the good results hide an indecisive streak which has characterised Inter’s performances this term and left them trailing surprise Serie A leaders Napoli.

Inter conceded just 22 goals in Serie A last season as they crushed the domestic competition and Inzaghi’s side were heavy favourites to retain the Scudetto after keeping hold of star players and adding to an already strong squad.

But Inter’s previously solid defence has already been breached 13 times in 11 league fixtures while their formidable attack has lost the ability to close out of matches.

Chucking away a two-goal lead to draw 4-4 with Juventus was the latest episode of a series of uncharacteristic downfalls after profligate finishing kept opponents in games.

Chucking away a two-goal lead to draw 4-4 with Juventus was the latest episode of a series of uncharacteristic downfalls after profligate finishing kept opponents in games. – AFP-BBC.