Arsenal’s long-awaited return to the Champions League continues on Tuesday night with a daunting trip to the San Siro to face Inter Milan.
Mikel Arteta’s side already know how difficult this fixture can be. The Gunners faced Inter during last season’s league phase and suffered a narrow 1–0 defeat in a game that sparked plenty of controversy. This time around, Arsenal will be desperate for revenge ( especially after dropping points against Nottingham Forest) in the Premier League at the weekend.
Inter Milan, however, are unlikely to roll over on home soil. The Italian giants remain one of Europe’s most organised and experienced sides, and their manager has made it clear that he holds Arsenal in extremely high regard.
Inter Boss Cristian Chivu Delivers Strong Verdict on Arsenal
Arsenal have arguably been the standout team in this season’s Champions League so far. Arteta’s men have won all six of their opening matches, scored 17 goals, and conceded just once — numbers that underline their dominance.
Opta’s supercomputer has even tipped the Gunners as favourites to lift the trophy, although the knockout stages are still some distance away.
Inter, meanwhile, have enjoyed a solid European campaign of their own. With four wins from six matches, they currently sit sixth in the table and are well placed to reach the next round.
Speaking ahead of the clash, Inter manager Cristian Chivu was full of praise for Arsenal, placing them among Europe’s elite. As quoted by Sempre Inter, he said:
“Arsenal are the strongest team around, together with Bayern Munich. We respect their level and know they will cause us problems.
We’re well prepared for this competition. We know our strength. We’ll play with our heads held high and try to win, because that would give us a much better chance of reaching the knockout stage.”
It’s clear that Inter expect a tough night — but they believe they are capable of competing with the Premier League leaders.
Predicted Result: Inter Milan vs Arsenal
This has all the ingredients of a tight, high-level European contest. Inter’s home advantage and defensive discipline will test Arsenal, but the Gunners’ form, confidence, and attacking depth could make the difference.
Prediction: Inter Milan 1–2 Arsenal
First goalscorer: Bukayo Saka
Arsenal’s ability to strike early in big matches could be crucial, and Saka has consistently delivered on the Champions League stage this season.
Ex-Arsenal Star Henrikh Mkhitaryan Could Face Former Club
Another intriguing subplot is the possible involvement of Henrikh Mkhitaryan. The Armenian midfielder joined Arsenal in a high-profile swap deal for Alexis Sanchez — a move that ultimately failed to work out for either club.
Now an experienced figure at Inter, Mkhitaryan could line up against the Gunners once again. He has featured regularly in recent Serie A matches and logged significant minutes in Inter’s latest Champions League outing against Liverpool.
It remains to be seen what kind of reception he receives from the Arsenal supporters inside the San Siro, but his presence only adds extra spice to an already fascinating encounter.
