Inter Milan and Bayern Munich ready to battle for History at Champions League
When it comes to football, news relating to Jose Mourinho spread like wildfire. The characteristically impetuous and haughty manager has been on the forefront of the Champions League throughout the season. It’s not that he doesn’t like the media frenzy and attention; the man actually likes to be the stud around. His recent remarks regarding his destined journey to Real Madrid, proves it no less.
However, the pragmatic coach is dealing with the situation at hand. The upcoming Champions League final between Inter Milan and Bayern Munich on the 22nd of May is the centre of attraction. Mourinho and his men are the hot favourites to win the trophy. Once the match is over, Mourinho will most probably leave for Real Madrid on the 23rd of May.
The Portuguese coach has been in the limelight for a number of things. However, his determination to win the second Champions League title (the first with Porto in 2004) is fresh in the minds of many. Julio Cesar from Inter Milan said, “Mourinho is a systematic type. He is precise, he takes it very seriously. He alone scares opponents.”
Commenting on the mental games he plays, Cesar said, “As for a technique to beat Bayern, for now this is a secret. People will have to watch the game on Saturday.” But of course that is evident from his pre-match campaign.
Mourinho and his men have indeed worked hard for this, keeping teams like Barcelona at bay in the semi-finals. They are reaching the finals after a gap of 38 years, the last being in 1972. Mourinho has already acquired the league and the cup trophies while working with Chelsea. This time round, Bayern will have to face the Mourinho music.
Cameroon’s Samuel Eto'o stated that this tension between the teams for the match should develop into an obsession. He said, “This must be a dream final for us. We will lose if it turns into obsession. I know that Inter fans have waited a lifetime for this moment.”
About his tactical approach on the match, he said, “We need the right attitude and the willingness to fight. I’ve played two finals, but both against English teams. This is a different story as Bayern are in form and are a great squad.”
The Bayern team is ready to pounce on the title as well. They are prepping up to make history in fact. No German club has ever won in a local league and eventually the Champions League.
Their star, Arjen Robben was eager for the encounter as he said, “The atmosphere in the team is very good. We are all very happy and proud to be here.” He has made a great contribution in the team this season, especially the Champions League when he scored the pivotal goals against Fiorentina and Manchester United.
Robben later said, “We have a great chance to write history.”
Oliver Kahn, the former German goalkeeper who played for Bayern warned the team not to underestimate Inter Milan in any department of the game. Kahn was part of the Champions League’s winning squad in 2001 where he captained Bayern Munich in the finals. He also happens to know what it’s like to lose. The Bavarian’s lost to Manchester United in the final two years earlier.
On the issue of winning and losing, Kahn said, “You don’t win a Champions League final because you have a good team spirit, you only manage this triumph with maximum concentration.” He advised, “The double has given Bayern self-confidence, but they must now ensure they don’t let the tension drop even a millimetre.
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