Manchester City, the 2023 champions, face off against Inter Milan once more as the UEFA Champions League commences, rekindling memories of their 2023 final encounter.

Pep Guardiola’s side has started the domestic season flawlessly, winning four consecutive league matches. Their 23-game unbeaten run in the Champions League will boost confidence ahead of this crucial match.Manchester City’s historical record against Serie A teams is less impressive, with just five wins from their last 13 matches (D5, L3). However, four of those wins came in their last five games against Italian clubs.

Simone Inzaghi’s Inter Milan remains unbeaten in the domestic league (W2, D2), despite a recent 1-1 draw against Monza. The return of defender Stefan de Vrij from injury strengthens their squad as they look to build on a strong UCL record, with just three defeats in their last 20 matches (W11, D6).A win for Inter Milan would make them the fourth team, alongside Barcelona (7), Real Madrid (5), and Bayern Munich (5), to secure victories away at five different English teams in the UCL. Their last away win was a 1-0 victory at Liverpool in March 2022.

Rodri’s second-half strike was decisive in the 2023 final between these two, and he’s not tasted defeat when scoring in any of his nine games since (W7, D2). Lautaro Martínez has had a slow start to the season but scored in two of Inter’s last four away UCL matches, both beyond the 80th minute. Pep Guardiola’s impressive managerial credentials are underscored by his 64% UCL win percentage, garnered from 109 wins in 171 games – a benchmark for managers with 50+ games.

This rematch promises to be an electrifying encounter, with both teams seeking a strong start to the Champions League campaign. Will Manchester City extend their unbeaten run, or can Inter Milan create history with a win?

Best Tip: Manchester City to win

Correct score: 2-1