Inter Milan Targets Scudetto Retention and European Revival for New Season

Inter Milan, fresh off a triumphant 2025/26 season that saw them secure both the Serie ACompetition·Serie A Scudetto and the Coppa ItaliaCompetition·Coppa Italia, has commenced pre-season training at the Appiano Gentile complex with clear objectives for the campaign ahead. Club President Beppe Marotta addressed the media, reflecting on past successes and setting a demanding agenda for the future, particularly highlighting the need for a stronger showing in European competition.

Marotta expressed immense pride in the club's recent achievements, acknowledging the hard work and dedication that led to their domestic double.

"We are privileged to be here starting the new season as reigning holders of the Serie A and Coppa Italia titles,"— Beppe Marotta.

He underscored that these victories were a testament to the collective work ethic, sense of belonging, and the capabilities of coach Cristian ChivuCoach·Cristian Chivu, the players, and the club's support structure. However, the focus quickly shifted to the challenges that lie ahead, especially in the UEFA Champions League.

Despite domestic dominance, InterTeam·Inter's 2025/26 Champions LeagueCompetition·Champions League campaign concluded prematurely, with an elimination by Bodø/Glimt in the knockout playoff phase. This outcome stands in stark contrast to their Serie ACompetition·Serie A performance, where they finished first with 87 points from 27 wins, 6 draws, and 5 losses. Marotta did not shy away from this disparity, stating that while all targets are prestigious, the club "must do better in the Champions LeagueCompetition·Champions League."

Inter Milan is set to compete in four competitions this season: Serie ACompetition·Serie A, the UEFA Champions League, the Supercoppa ItalianaCompetition·Supercoppa Italiana, and the Coppa ItaliaCompetition·Coppa Italia. The Supercoppa will feature a single match against LazioTeam·Lazio. Marotta acknowledged the significant financial disparity when competing against Europe's elite, noting the difficulties in bidding wars, such as the loss of Marco PalestraPlayer·Marco Palestra to ChelseaTeam·Chelsea.

"We are well aware that we have difficulties and are up against European powerhouses, also in terms of their investment capabilities, but we participate with our work ethic that has always helped us stand out,"— Beppe Marotta.

He maintained that financial might does not guarantee success, advocating for a "winning project" built on consistency, quality, and player value. Domestically, the challenge of retaining the Scudetto is also considerable, as no team has won two consecutive Serie ACompetition·Serie A titles since 2020. Marotta warned against complacency, emphasizing the need to maintain the hunger that propelled them to recent triumphs.

The club's strategy also encompasses a sustainable modus operandi. Marotta highlighted the owners, Oaktree, for their investment in infrastructure, including €100,000 for the Interello camp, and the club's successful youth academy, which provides a strong pipeline of talent capable of meeting European squad criteria. This holistic approach, including the Under-23 and women's teams, is seen as crucial for the club's continued evolution and pursuit of further significant achievements.