Benitez: Inter Milan Have a Title-Contending Feel Against Napoli, but It Is Too Early for Conclusions

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Benitez believes Inter Milan's clash with Napoli has the feel of a title race contest, but it is still too early to judge that this match will affect the entire season.

Asked whether this was a title race showdown, Benitez said: “On one hand, yes, because over the past four years the championship has been shared by two major clubs, and both teams have gained an advantage through their sharp approaches. But on the other hand, no, because it is definitely too early to believe that this result will affect the entire season.”

Discussing whether the match would test speed or intelligence more, Benitez said: “It will test the mind more than the legs. Inter have Calhanoglu, Zielinski, Barella and Lautaro, which gives them an early advantage; but Napoli have De Bruyne, Lobotka, Hojlund and Anguissa, and they have no reason to fear either. Inter have already won two matches, and their attacking output has been remarkable, with 31 shots against Cagliari. This shows the team is in good condition, only needing to improve efficiency and waiting for Lautaro and De Bruyne to return to their best form. Players like these are worth appreciating.”

Regarding the dissatisfaction among Napoli supporters after the defeat to Como, Benitez said: “It is normal for fans to feel disappointed when the team suffers a setback, but Allegri is the ideal coach for controlling the situation, and he is a guarantee.”

Speaking about the impact of the transfer market, Benitez said: “Many teams have changed, while Napoli have basically remained the same. Inter and Juventus have both signed players from the Premier League, Roma have strengthened in many areas, and Milan have done the same. After raising significant funds from players such as Palestra and Ahanor, Atalanta have still not stopped investing; Como continue to improve their own plan. The main protagonists of the season will come from these seven teams.”