Inter legend Alessandro Altobelli believes the Nerazzurri can still reach the Champions League last eight despite their opening-day defeat to Real Madrid, while praising Lautaro Martinez and Federico Dimarco among the world’s best in their positions.
Inter lost 2-1 at the Santiago Bernabeu, with mistakes from Yann Bisseck and Josep Martinez proving costly despite Carlos Augusto pulling one back.
“Inter certainly deserved more. I like the way the team plays, but perhaps something needs to be reviewed on certain occasions,” Altobelli told Tuttosport.
The former Italy striker believes Inter’s attacking approach should not change, although he feels greater defensive attention is required in Europe.
“I actually like that Inter face their opponents openly, thinking more about attacking than defending even against certain types of rivals. Inter play football, they don’t go onto the pitch just to avoid conceding goals, although of course there is always room for improvement.”
Altobelli also criticised the risks involved in playing out from the back after Josep Martinez’s error against Real Madrid.
“Sometimes, speaking generally, I wonder what the point is. If you risk getting into difficulty, the best and right thing, as has always been done, is for the goalkeeper to clear the ball into the other area.”
Altobelli: ‘Inter will finish in the top eight’
Despite this, the club great remains confident of a strong Champions League campaign.
“For me, yes,” he said when asked if Inter will finish among the top eight. “You have to evaluate the performance and what the team can give in the future.”
Altobelli also reiterated his admiration for Lautaro.
“Yes, who is there in his position? Mbappe, Kane, him. There are three or four who are truly outstanding. I don’t compare him with anyone, but I would keep Lautaro very close.”
And he believes there should be no doubt over Dimarco’s future.
“I don’t think there is even half a problem with the renewal of one of the strongest left-backs in the world, as well as an Inter player.”
