Valverde Expects Tough Inter Milan Challenge

By Max Wise

Ernesto Valverde has told his Barcelona players to expect a tough challenge from Inter Milan when the two sides clash in the Champions League on Tuesday.

The Barcelona manager envisages that Luciano Spalleti’s side would appear aggressive and leave no space for maneuvering.

Inter Milan welcome Barcelona to the 80,018-seater Stadio Giuseppe Meazza in a wild search for revenge, having lost the reverse Group-B fixture 2-0 at Camp Nou a fortnight ago.

Valverde's side tops the group with nine points and go to Italy knowing a fourth win will secure them qualification as group winners.

But standing between them and that feat is The Black and Blues, who are second in the group with six points and also boast of a seven-game winning streak in the Serie A.

"They are in a good moment, winning many games and up in the league table and the Champ  League. It is a brave team, they have a plan and they follow it through."

"They are coming to get you from the moment the referee whistles for the kickoff and they take risks."

"We expect them to be a bit more aggressive with pressure when they play at home and with all the Inter identity."

"They are a very intense team who want to dictate the play and don’t like to be submitted. They want to press high and all those elements that are bringing them so much success this season."

"But at the same time, it is an aggressive team who knows how to defend. I like that kind of teams."