Henrikh Mkhitaryan has delivered a focused and determined pre-match message ahead of Inter Milan’s crucial Serie A clash with Cagliari at San Siro, insisting the Nerazzurri are fully concentrated on winning despite the difficulty of the challenge.
The Armenia midfielder spoke to Inter TV, via FCInterNews, in the moments before kick-off, acknowledging the challenge while making Inter’s intentions clear.
“Every match is important, we are playing against opponents who never give up,” Mkhitaryan said. “Tonight will also be difficult, but we must play our game to win.”
Inter Vs Cagliari – Mkhitaryan Calls On San Siro To Act As 12th Man
Indeed, the former Arsenal and Manchester United man also recognised the role the crowd would play in driving Inter forward at a pivotal moment of the season.
“The fans? They are very important, the 12th man on the pitch,” he said.
“We hope there will be a great atmosphere.”
Furthermore, the message was one of controlled focus rather than complacency, a reflection of the mentality Chivu has built within this squad as the Scudetto race enters its decisive phase.
Inter now face 90 minutes that could ease their path to the Scudetto dramatically, or give the title race yet another dramatic shake-up.
Speaking shortly afterwards to Sky, with quotes via FCInterNews, the midfielder said:
“Obviously, we’re playing against Cagliari but that doesn’t mean we’re favourites. We start at 0-0 and have to prove we’re favourites on the pitch.
“In times of difficulty, we’re ever more united. We have this opportunity to win something, and we have to take advantage of it.”
Finally, the Armenian was asked what his future has in store for him.
He has been strongly linked with a move away from the club in the summer.
However, some reports have claimed he could sign an extension.
Mkhitaryan offers depth and experience and with a number of other high-profile outgoings expected in the summer, perhaps his stay in Lombardy would not be a bad thing.
