Zielinski Agrees: Inter Must Elevate Champions League Play

Double Success Fuels European Ambition

Inter secured their first domestic double under Cristian Chivu last season, capturing both the Scudetto and the Coppa Italia. The triumph was quickly overshadowed by a disappointing Champions League exit in the play‑offs to Bodo/Glimt. President Beppe Marotta signaled a clear shift in focus, urging the squad to “do better in Europe” this term. Piotr Zielinski echoed that sentiment, stating, “Our ambitions are high, we want to repeat our success in Serie A, the Coppa Italia, and add a little something extra in the Champions League.”

The Polish midfielder added that the team “must do better in Europe than last season,” emphasizing that Inter “ought to be challenging on every front.” He acknowledged the CL performance was “below our usual level” and vowed improvement. Marotta’s summer message aligned with Zielinski’s view that the Champions League must be a priority alongside domestic titles.

Zielinski’s Personal Goals and Team Outlook

In his own words at Inter’s pre‑season camp in Germany, Zielinski declared, “We have a great team and we must do better in Europe… The Champions League was below our usual level last season, and we certainly need to improve.” He also stressed the desire to “repeat our success” in Serie A and Coppa Italia, highlighting the club’s intent to compete on multiple fronts.

Coach Chivu has already started reshaping the squad’s mindset. He urged players to “find new motivation, ambition and hunger for this new season, and to leave the past behind us.” This fresh approach aims to keep the momentum from last year’s double while addressing the shortcomings in European competition.

Rivalry Talk and Realistic Targets

Inter’s rivals will include Juventus, Atalanta, and emerging challengers. When asked about the Scudetto race, Zielinski noted, “I think there are some very strong teams who will challenge us for the title… I expect to see three or four sides.” He also referenced recent comments from Luciano Spalletti, who downplayed Juventus’ title chances, adding that Inter will “do everything to win the Scudetto, Coppa Italia, and give our best in the Champions League too.”

The focus on a broad challenge reflects Inter’s ambition to avoid complacency after last season’s domestic dominance. By targeting improvement in the Champions League, the club hopes to convert past success into sustained European relevance.