Former Inter Milan goalkeeper Julio Cesar is siding with the Nerazzurri to banish the demons of Istanbul when they encounter Paris Saint-Germain in the 2025 UEFA Champions League final on Saturday.
Inter conquered Barcelona in an extraordinary semi-final tie to reach their second UEFA Champions League final in three seasons, although on this occasion they will be hoping to emerge victorious after suffering an agonising defeat to Manchester City in the 2023 showpiece.
Rodri's second half goal proved to be the difference on that night as Pep Guardiola's all-conquering side managed to concoct the winning formula against a brilliantly organised Inter side despite not being at their fluent best.
Simone Inzaghi's men had chances to salvage the contest with Federico Dimarco's header rattling the crossbar and Romelu Lukaku spurning a gilt-edged opportunity in the dying embers.
With the scars of Istanbul still visible, Inter are also nursing their wounds from a failed Serie A title defence which saw them relinquish the Scudetto to Napoli.
However, Cesar - who was a key component in Inter's last European triumph - believes that the Nerazzurri will rise to the occasion in a tightly-contested final against PSG.
“I’m an Inter fan and for me, Inter is a family," Cesar explained when reminding bet365 of where his allegiance lies in an exclusive interview.
“It’s tough [to pick] because Paris Saint-Germain arrive in this final in good form.
It looks 50/50, but I think Inter has more of a possibility to win.
“After the final in Istanbul against Manchester City, Inter were smart as they kept Simone Inzaghi and changed two or three players. In that game against Manchester City, I think Inter deserved to win as they created more opportunities and they will be desperate to avoid the same fate."
Inter have been the epitome of teamwork throughout the 2024/25 UEFA Champions League campaign and flaunt one of the meanest defences on the continent.
Inzaghi's rearguard will need to be at their superior best if they're to neutralise an attacking unit which consists of the menacing Kvicha Kvaratskhelia and Ballon d'Or contender Ousmane Dembele.
Highlighting his two key players for the contest, Cesar stated: “Dembele has had a wonderful season, and he can be the difference.
“[For Inter] Lautaro Martinez for sure. If he is fit, Inter have every chance. He is the leader of the team and his teammates respect him.”
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