LONDON: Inter Milan coach Luciano Spalletti said he was not worried about the possible return to the Barcelona side of Lionel Messi ahead of his side’s Champions League clash against the Catalan club today.
The Argentine could make an earlier-than-expected return from a broken arm against the Italians at the San Siro.
But while he described Messi as the icing on Barcelona’s cake, Spalletti said he would not make any special changes to cope with the talisman’s possible return.
“Messi is the icing on the cake. His is the shirt that children who dream of being footballers ask for,” said Spalletti.
“But Barcelona have shown that even without him, they still have the mentality to develop their game, which is what makes the difference.
“It’s a worry for anyone if Messi plays, but the attitude doesn’t change.
“We’re facing one of the strongest clubs in the world in any case. We need to be better in our reading of the game, but we’re going to mark space, not men.”
Barcelona are top of Group B with maximum points from three games, ahead of Inter Milan who lost 2-0 in Spain.
A draw against Inter would guarantee the Spaniards qualification to the last 16 while victory would secure top spot, with two games still to spare.
Inter need a win to all but book their passage to the last 16 in a group which also includes Tottenham and PSV Eindhoven.
“It’s the time to show what we’re worth,” said Spalletti.
Inter Milan’s Luciano Spalletti not bothered by possible Lionel Messi return ahead of Barcelona battle
Inter Milan’s Luciano Spalletti not bothered by possible Lionel Messi return ahead of Barcelona battle
