Tradition! Inter Milan's Four Champions Shine, Elevating the Newcomers

Inter Milan clinched their third consecutive Italian Super Cup title with a 1-0 victory over Napoli, breaking a 35-year tradition. Previously, no team from the "Cup Winners Group" had defeated the "League Champions Group" two years in a row. However, for Inter, who recently bested both AC Milan and Napoli, records exist to be shattered. A notable moment was Davide Frattesi's comment after the victory: "How should I lift the trophy?" This remark underscores the significance of the trophy beyond monetary value. For many players, this achievement represents a breakthrough, an elevation of their stature, and a deeper understanding of what it means to wear the Nerazzurri shirt.

Before joining Inter, Frattesi was considered a promising talent in Serie A and a budding Italian star. However, he had never won a major title. Prior to this match, his most significant achievement was a runner-up medal in the 2018 UEFA U19 European Championship. But tonight, everything changed. Frattesi is not alone; several players share a similar journey, such as Jan Bisseck. They came to Inter to grow, and lifting trophies is a critical part of their development. In football, "championship mentality" is intangible yet palpable in decisive moments, and tonight, four of Inter's "champions" exemplified this perfectly.

First, Yann Sommer. Sommer, who has won numerous trophies throughout his career, had limited opportunities to shine in this match, with only one crucial save. Yet, that single save was invaluable, reminiscent of Júlio César's heroics against Lionel Messi during Inter's treble-winning season. Fans on Twitter reflected: If Samir Handanović had been in goal, the outcome might have been different. Sommer's arrival at Inter was motivated by a desire to win more titles, and he has kept his promise.

Additionally, the match's standout performers, according to Gazzetta dello Sport, were Benjamin Pavard and Lautaro Martínez. Inter had numerous opportunities but struggled to convert, and as the game seemed destined for a penalty shootout, the champions from the 2018 and 2022 World Cups respectively combined for the winning goal. Pavard's assist to Lautaro's finish was a masterclass in championship mentality. Lautaro, often praised this season, captained the team to victory for the first time, a well-deserved honor.

Pavard's performance further cemented his status as "Mr. Big Heart." Having won the World Cup, the UEFA Nations League with France, and eleven trophies, including the Champions League with Bayern Munich, Pavard was impeccable defensively and crucial offensively. Three of Inter's four "Big Chances" came from his passes. The closer they got to the trophy, the brighter his aura shone. Players like Pavard are invaluable.

But perhaps the most striking example of championship magic came from Simone Inzaghi. In the final moments, Inzaghi's tactical adjustments, deploying a 3-4-1-2 formation, allowed Alexis Sánchez, not typically a game-changer, to provide the decisive pass. This victory marked Inzaghi's fifth Super Cup win, surpassing Fabio Capello and Marcello Lippi. At just over 40 years old and with a relatively short managerial career, Inzaghi's success prompts some to suggest renaming the Super Cup in his honor. Despite criticisms from some that cup victories are insufficient without league titles, Inzaghi's mastery in maximizing his team's strengths deserves praise.

Inter, facing financial difficulties and in need of any trophy, are fortunate to have a "financial wizard" like Inzaghi. The team boasts several "champions" beyond those mentioned, each contributing significantly. While winning the Super Cup does not alleviate the pressure from Juventus in the league, the trophy's value is undeniable. Frattesi's elation and Bisseck's beaming smile highlight the trophy's impact beyond mere financial gain, potentially providing crucial momentum for the grueling league season ahead.

Inter CEO Giuseppe Marotta aptly summarized: "To conquer every trophy we can contend for and use these victories to continually write the club's culture is the survival attitude Inter must have." Without this mindset, why would players like Sommer, Pavard, or Inzaghi choose Inter over clubs like Bayern or Lazio? Why would players like Frattesi and Bisseck reject other offers, endure rigorous training, and patiently wait for their opportunities?

Certainly, participating in high-stakes Super Cup matches added strain, allowing league rivals like Juventus to benefit from Inter's temporary fatigue. However, the tangible and intangible rewards of winning trophies suggest Inter's efforts are far from fruitless. These rewards may prove crucial in the marathon league campaign ahead, potentially making all the difference.

For Inter Milan, a team striving for every trophy and every revenue source, the contributions of players like Sommer, Pavard, Lautaro, and Inzaghi embody the championship mentality that fuels their success. As they navigate the challenging season, the lessons and confidence gained from their Super Cup triumph will be invaluable. This victory, more than just a financial boon, represents a vital step in their ongoing journey to greatness.