Inter Milan targets Scudetto retention and Champions League revival

Inter Milan won the Scudetto and Coppa Italia in the previous season, establishing themselves as Serie A’s dominant force. Now, under new head coach Cristian Chivu, the club faces a steeper challenge: defending their title when no team has won consecutive Serie A crowns since 2020.

The Nerazzurri’s pre-season training began at the Appiano Gentile complex, marking the start of preparations under Chivu, who replaced Simone Inzaghi. Inter’s ownership, Oaktree, has signalled its commitment by investing €100,000 in the Interello camp infrastructure.

European ambition looms large. Inter exited the Champions League to Bodo/Glimt in the previous season—a result that underscored the gap between domestic dominance and continental competitiveness. The club is out of the Settlement Agreement with UEFA, removing one regulatory constraint as they pursue a more aggressive European campaign.

The fixture list is punishing. Inter will compete in four competitions: Serie A, Champions League, Supercoppa Italiana, and Coppa Italia. The Supercoppa Italiana will be a one-off game between Inter and Lazio, adding another knockout hurdle to an already crowded schedule.

One notable departure shapes the squad’s new identity. Marco Palestra transferred to Chelsea from Inter, weakening the defensive options Chivu will inherit. The coach must balance continuity with evolution—retaining the winning core while adapting to a fresh tactical vision.