Benitez warns Inter: “They need leaders, the defence is fragile”

Rafa Benitez has focused attention on Inter’s current situation after the derby defeat to Milan. The former Nerazzurri coach believes the team must restart from its personality and identifies one clear requirement: “Now they need leaders.” The warning comes at a delicate stage, with Inter needing an immediate response on the European stage.

Benitez’s analysis also highlights an alarm concerning the defensive department. In the former coach’s view, the defensive fragility “is starting to become a problem” and cannot be dismissed as an isolated episode. Inter therefore need to rediscover solidity, concentration and players capable of taking responsibility during difficult moments. The former coach’s comments add to the discussion opened after the 3-1 defeat in the derby.

The schedule offers no respite. After beating Venezia 2-0 away and losing to Milan, Inter face Feyenoord today, Tuesday 3 November 2026, at 21:00 in Rotterdam, on Champions League matchday four. In Serie A, the next fixture is on Sunday 8 November at 18:00, at San Siro against Como.