The wait is almost over. On Saturday, June 10, 2023, the Atatürk Olympic Stadium in Istanbul will host a clash of contrasting football philosophies as Manchester City take on Inter Milan in the UEFA Champions League final. Pep Guardiola’s all-conquering Cityzens are chasing their first European crown to complete a historic treble, while Simone Inzaghi’s Nerazzurri are dreaming of a return to continental glory after 13 years. It’s Premier League dominance against Serie A resilience, and it promises fireworks.

Route to the Final

Manchester City have been nothing short of sensational in Europe this season. After breezing through a tricky group containing Borussia Dortmund and Sevilla, they swatted aside RB Leipzig in the Round of 16 (8-1 on aggregate), dismantled Bayern Munich in the quarters, and produced a masterclass against defending champions Real Madrid in the semis, particularly their 4-0 second-leg demolition at the Etihad. City have looked like a machine in full flow, scoring for fun and rarely looking troubled.

Inter Milan, on the other hand, have navigated a more dramatic and gritty path. Drawn in the “group of death” with Bayern Munich and Barcelona, the Nerazzurri held their nerve to qualify, notably earning a pivotal 3-3 draw at Camp Nou. In the knockouts, they overcame Porto and Benfica with defensive discipline and clinical counter-attacking before a mature semi-final performance against city rivals AC Milan, winning 3-0 on aggregate. Inter may not have City’s star power, but their journey has showcased resilience, organisation and a ruthless streak.

Team News

For Manchester City, Pep Guardiola is expected to have a near full-strength squad. Kevin De Bruyne, Erling Haaland and Ilkay Gündogan will lead the charge, while defensive linchpins Ruben Dias and John Stones (in his new hybrid midfield role) will be key to controlling Inter’s counter-attacks. Guardiola’s biggest selection call will likely revolve around whether to start Bernardo Silva and Jack Grealish together or introduce Riyad Mahrez for added width.

Inter Milan also boast a clean bill of health. Lautaro Martínez and Edin Džeko should start up front, though Romelu Lukaku’s recent form could tempt Inzaghi to unleash the Belgian from the start. Nicolò Barella will be pivotal in midfield, while veteran goalkeeper André Onana has been outstanding throughout the tournament and will need another big night to keep City at bay.

Recent Form

City come into the final riding a wave of confidence. They have already secured the Premier League title and the FA Cup, and Guardiola’s side have lost just once in their last 26 matches in all competitions. Their fluid attack, anchored by the record-breaking Haaland, has been relentless.

Inter Milan have also found their groove at the right time. After an inconsistent winter, the Nerazzurri surged to a Coppa Italia triumph and a top-four Serie A finish. Inzaghi’s men have won 11 of their last 12 matches in all competitions, blending defensive solidity with swift attacking transitions.

Players to Watch

• Erling Haaland (Manchester City): The Norwegian has shattered goal-scoring records in his debut season and remains the most lethal striker in Europe. Inter’s back three must keep him quiet to have any hope.
• Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City): City’s creative heartbeat, capable of unlocking even the tightest defences with a single pass.
• Lautaro Martínez (Inter Milan): In sparkling form, the Argentine forward’s movement and finishing will be key to unsettling City’s back line.
• André Onana (Inter Milan): The Cameroonian keeper has been Inter’s unsung hero, excelling with shot-stopping and distribution under pressure.

Prediction

Manchester City enter as overwhelming favourites, and for good reason. Their combination of attacking brilliance, midfield control, and defensive stability makes them one of the most complete teams of the modern era. Inter’s defensive nous and counter-attacking threat will keep things interesting, but over 90 minutes, City’s quality should tell.

Prediction: Manchester City 2-0 Inter Milan