Calhanoglu: 'Inter and Real Madrid are both strong teams'

Hakan Calhanoglu believes that both Real Madrid and Inter Milan are formidable teams with exceptional individual players. He also expressed his delight at reuniting with his former teammate, Denzel Dumfries.

The match is scheduled to commence at the Bernabeu Stadium in Madrid at 20:00 UK time (21:00 CEST).

Inter Milan has had a strong start to their domestic season, securing victories in their first three Serie A matches, including a dramatic come-from-behind win against Napoli. They now face a challenging opening fixture in the Champions League against Real Madrid.

Calhanoglu conveyed his positive feelings about the team's performance, stating, "I feel good, we started the season well and hope to continue like this." He acknowledged Real Madrid's strength and the presence of talented individuals within their squad, but emphasized that Inter possesses similar qualities. "We know Real Madrid are a strong side with great individuals, but the same can be said of Inter. We’ve got to be united today, we know that we have to run, and with the maximum focus and concentration. We want to play our game, certainly better than last season, and we want to start well in the Champions League."

Reflecting on Inter's recent comeback victory over Napoli, Calhanoglu highlighted the team's resilience and determination. "We showed the right mentality to never give in, to keep going to the very last minute, and we want to show that mentality even more this season," he assured.

The match at the Bernabeu will be played with the roof closed, following recent renovations to the stadium.

During the pitch inspection, there were warm interactions between Denzel Dumfries and his former Inter teammates, including Calhanoglu. "It’s always nice to play here, just as it is at San Siro," Calhanoglu commented. "We know Mourinho spent a lot of time in Serie A, he went to Spain this summer, but we’re happy to see Denzel too."

Inter's social media accounts humorously noted that they managed to get a smile out of Dumfries, who is often perceived as looking serious in photographs, sharing a picture of him and Hakan Calhanoglu embracing.

English Translation:

Hakan Calhanoglu insists Real Madrid and Inter are both ‘strong sides with great individuals,’ and is pleased to reunite with old teammate Denzel Dumfries.

The match kicks off at the Bernabeu in Madrid at 20:00 UK time (21:00 CEST).

The Nerazzurri have started their season strongly, winning their first three Serie A matches, including a comeback victory over Napoli. They now face a tough away trip to Spain for their Champions League opener.

Calhanoglu stated, "I feel good, we started the season well and hope to continue like this." He acknowledged Real Madrid's prowess, saying, "We know Real Madrid are a strong side with great individuals, but the same can be said of Inter. We’ve got to be united today, we know that we have to run, and with the maximum focus and concentration. We want to play our game, certainly better than last season, and we want to start well in the Champions League."

Inter showed great mentality to come back from a two-goal deficit to secure a thrilling 3-2 win against Napoli at the weekend. Calhanoglu emphasized this resilience: "We showed the right mentality to never give in, to keep going to the very last minute, and we want to show that mentality even more this season."

The roof at the Bernabeu will be closed for the evening, a result of the stadium's renovation project.

There were friendly exchanges during the pitch inspection between Denzel Dumfries and his former teammates, including Calhanoglu. "It’s always nice to play here, just as it is at San Siro. We know Mourinho spent a lot of time in Serie A, he went to Spain this summer, but we’re happy to see Denzel too."

Inter's social media channels lightheartedly commented on Dumfries' typically serious expression in photos, noting they finally managed to make him smile, sharing a picture of Dumfries and Calhanoglu.