Inter Milan is one step away from securing their fourth Champions League title, with legendary striker Ronaldo, known as Fenômeno, rooting for the team in their final against Paris Saint-Germain, set for May 31, 2025, at the Allianz Arena in Munich. In an interview with the Italian newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport, the former player, who left an indelible mark at the club between 1997 and 2002, expressed confidence in the nerazzurri squad following their dramatic qualification against Barcelona in the semifinals. The match, decided in extra time with a goal from Frattesi, reignited hopes of a title Inter hasn’t won since 2010. Ronaldo, who never lifted the Champions League in his illustrious career, requested the trophy as a “gift” and praised standout performances from players like Acerbi and Lautaro Martínez. The clash promises to be a defining moment for the Italian club, aiming to repeat their triumphs of 1964, 1965, and 2010.
The final against PSG offers Inter Milan a historic opportunity. The team heads into the match after a campaign filled with moments of resilience, such as their comeback against Barcelona. Ronaldo, watching as a devoted fan, maintains a deep bond with the club where he earned his Fenômeno nickname.
- Key campaign moments: Inter overcame opponents like Atlético de Madrid and Bayern Munich before facing Barcelona.
- Individual standout: Lautaro Martínez, the team’s captain, leads the squad’s scoring in the competition with five goals.
- Champions League history: Inter seeks their fourth title, matching the achievements of clubs like Ajax and Manchester United.
🥇😍#UCLfinal pic.twitter.com/vajXI6qDQU
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) May 29, 2025
Journey to the final
Inter Milan’s path in the 2024/25 Champions League was marked by thrilling matches and critical moments. In the round of 16, they defeated Atlético de Madrid 2-0 on aggregate. In the quarterfinals, they faced Bayern Munich, prevailing in a tight contest with a 3-2 victory in the second leg. The semifinal against Barcelona, however, was the pinnacle of their journey so far. After a 3-3 draw in Spain, Inter took a 2-0 lead at home, only to see Barcelona stage a comeback in the second half. At the 48th minute of regular time, Acerbi equalized, forcing extra time, where Frattesi sealed a 4-3 win and a spot in the final.
The team’s collective strength, combined with the leadership of seasoned players, has been a game-changer. Coach Simone Inzaghi, in charge since 2021, relied on a robust formation, with the attacking duo of Lautaro Martínez and Marcus Thuram shining.
Ronaldo’s legacy at Inter
Ronaldo joined Inter Milan in 1997 from Barcelona and quickly became one of the club’s greatest idols. Over five seasons, he played 99 matches and scored 59 goals, an impressive tally despite injury setbacks. His performance in the 1997/98 UEFA Cup final against Lazio remains one of the most iconic moments of his tenure. Although he won only that title with Inter, Ronaldo fell short of the coveted Champions League.
The former striker, who also played for Real Madrid and Milan, retains a special connection with the nerazzurri. In his recent interview, he emphasized the passion of the fans and the unique atmosphere at the San Siro, Inter’s home stadium.
- Ronaldo’s Inter stats: 59 goals in 99 games, averaging 0.59 goals per match.
- Major achievement: 1997/98 UEFA Cup, scoring in the final against Lazio.
- Legacy: Ronaldo is celebrated as one of Inter’s all-time greats.
Strength of the current squad
Inter Milan’s 2024/25 roster blends youth and experience. Lautaro Martínez, 27, spearheads the attack alongside Marcus Thuram, while the defense is anchored by Alessandro Bastoni and Francesco Acerbi. In midfield, Nicolò Barella and Hakan Çalhanoğlu control the tempo. The team’s ability to rally in clutch moments, as seen against Barcelona, underscores their mentality.
Coach Simone Inzaghi has earned praise for his tactical acumen. His 3-5-2 formation balances defense and attack, enabling swift transitions. Inter has scored 22 goals in the competition, making them the second-most prolific team, trailing only Manchester City.
The opponent: Paris Saint-Germain
Paris Saint-Germain enters the final with a star-studded lineup, featuring players like Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé. The French club, winners of the Champions League in 2020, aims for their second European title. In the semifinals, PSG dispatched Real Madrid with a commanding 3-1 win in the second leg. Luis Enrique’s team favors an attacking style, averaging 2.5 goals per game in the tournament.
The Munich final will be the first Champions League meeting between Inter and PSG. Over the past five years, the teams have faced off only in friendlies, splitting one win each.
- PSG standouts: Mbappé leads the Champions League scoring with seven goals.
- Playing style: PSG emphasizes possession and wide attacks.
- Finals history: The club lost the 2020 final to Bayern Munich.
The stage: Allianz Arena
The Allianz Arena in Munich will host the 2024/25 Champions League final. With a capacity of 75,000, the stadium is one of Europe’s most modern and has hosted major finals, including the 2012 edition won by Chelsea. Munich’s selection highlights its rich football heritage as the home of Bayern Munich.
The final is scheduled for May 31, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. Brasília time, with global broadcasts. Organizers anticipate a record crowd, with tickets sold out weeks in advance.
Fan support
Inter Milan’s supporters have been unwavering throughout the campaign. Against Barcelona, the San Siro welcomed over 70,000 fans, creating an electric atmosphere. For the final, around 20,000 nerazzurri fans are expected in Munich, many traveling in organized convoys.
Social media reflects the excitement. Posts on X highlight the thrill of the Barcelona win, with videos of Acerbi’s and Frattesi’s goals shared thousands of times. The hashtag #InterPSG is trending on the platform.
Competition numbers
The 2024/25 Champions League has delivered high-scoring, competitive matches. By the semifinals, 380 goals were scored across 124 games, averaging 3.06 per match. Inter contributed 22 goals, while PSG scored 25.
- Top scorers: Mbappé (PSG) leads with seven goals, followed by Haaland (Manchester City) and Martínez (Inter) with five each.
- Memorable games: Beyond Inter vs. Barcelona, Manchester City’s comeback against Arsenal in the quarterfinals stood out.
- Viewership: The Inter-Barcelona semifinal peaked at 15 million viewers in Europe.
Match expectations
The Inter Milan vs. PSG final promises a tactical and emotional showdown. Inter relies on defensive solidity and counterattacks, while PSG aims to dominate possession. Ronaldo, in his interview, stressed the importance of Inter’s never-say-die attitude.
The game also marks Inter’s return to a final after 15 years. In 2010, under José Mourinho, they defeated Bayern Munich 2-0. Now, a new generation of players seeks to etch their names in the club’s history.
Team preparations
In the lead-up to the final, both teams ramped up training. Inter held tactical sessions in Milan, focusing on neutralizing Mbappé and Dembélé. PSG, arriving early in Munich, worked on set pieces, a strength in the competition.
Both squads are expected to be at full strength, with no confirmed absences. Inter, however, is monitoring Hakan Çalhanoğlu, who reported thigh discomfort in the semifinal.
Legacy of the final
The 2024/25 Champions League final will be a landmark for the winner. For Inter, victory would cement Simone Inzaghi’s project and restore their place among Europe’s elite. For PSG, it would affirm their continental stature after years of heavy investment.
Ronaldo, an Inter icon, will be in the stands, embodying the passion of millions of fans. His presence bridges the club’s storied past and promising present.
