Capello: Inter can chase the treble but must beware of three threats | OneFootball

Fabio Capello insists that Simone Inzaghi’s recent words exuded confidence that Inter can truly achieve the treble this season, but he believes they must overcome three key obstacles to reach this historic milestone.

The former Juventus, Milan and Real Madrid manager is adamant the Nerazzurri have just proven to be ‘by far’ the strongest team in Serie A after putting in a dominant display against Atalanta, but their coach must now hope that his players return fit and happy from the international break.

Capello: Inter strongest team in Serie A but international break a ‘crucial factor’

“For Inter, the most important thing will be seeing how the players return from the international break,” Capello wrote in a column for La Gazzetta dello Sport.

BERGAMO, ITALY – MARCH 16: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the Serie A match between Atalanta and FC Internazionale at Gewiss Stadium on March 16, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

“Let’s hope they all come back healthy, that they have won, and that they are happy. That way, they will return to Appiano Gentile even more motivated and aggressive.

“This is a crucial factor because Simone Inzaghi must hope that no one gets injured.

“As for the league, the Nerazzurri have just proven to be by far the strongest team. The way they are set up on the field, the ease with which they play, the way they help each other, and how everyone is involved in the game at all times—moving across the pitch with sacrifice—all highlight their strength.”

Inzaghi believes Inter’s treble is ‘possible’

The 78-year-old also noted that Inzaghi’s openness in admitting his side aims at winning every competition stands out as a clear sign of Inter’s confidence, but he warned them about the danger of underestimating supposedly weaker opponents.

BERGAMO, ITALY – MARCH 16: Simone Inzaghi, Head Coach of FC Internazionale, gestures prior to the Serie A match between Atalanta and FC Internazionale at Gewiss Stadium on March 16, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

“Now, Inzaghi’s three-finger gesture carries great significance,” Capello continued.

“When a coach does that, it means he truly believes that winning three trophies is possible. I know from experience what it means to have that conviction, and he is clearly transmitting it to his team.

This is why I believe Inter is aiming for every trophy.

“Additionally, on Sunday—once again—they didn’t concede a goal (and in general, they concede very few). The team is always highly focused defensively and remains dangerous in all attacking situations.

“The biggest danger now would be underestimating matches against teams perceived as weaker. In tough challenges, Inter show up and display their full strength.

“However, when facing a less-equipped team—a risk I know well from managing a couple of top clubs—it’s crucial to avoid stepping onto the pitch and wasting time without playing like a great team.”

Coppa Italia derby a challenge Inter should not overlook

The two-legged Derby della Madonnina in the Coppa Italia is another challenge Inter must consider, according to Capello, as it could take a mental toll on the team.

“Finally, the Coppa Italia should not be overlooked, as it is a demanding competition, especially on a mental level,” Capello explained.

MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 22: Theo Hernandez of AC Milan is challenged by Denzel Dumfries during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and AC Milan at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on September 22, 2024 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

“A derby is always a derby—there is the desire to win and perform well, and the city-wide tension is palpable. Rotating a few players between matches won’t be an issue for Inzaghi, because nowadays—if you have a fully fit squad—the five substitutions rule allows you to change almost 50% of the team during the game.

“To sum up, the three competitions Inter are competing in each present different challenges: the mental effort required for the Coppa Italia, the technical challenge of the Champions League, and the risk of underestimating opponents in the final nine Serie A matches.

“However, when a coach makes such statements—like the three-finger gesture—it’s not just talk. You have to believe him, and when you do, things become a little easier.”