| Friday, May 30, 2025 8:02 AM

Paul Ince and Claude Makelele Preview Inter vs PSG Champions League Final for bet365

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As Inter and Paris Saint-Germain prepare to battle it out for European glory in the UEFA Champions League final in Munich on Saturday night, two club legends — Paul Ince and Claude Makelele — have offered contrasting yet insightful perspectives ahead of the showdown.

Both former internationals, who now follow the game as seasoned observers, believe their old clubs have what it takes to lift the trophy — but for very different reasons.

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Ince: PSG’s Game Plan Could Backfire

Former Inter midfielder Paul Ince believes Paris Saint-Germain’s counter-attacking style might actually benefit Inter Milan’s defensive setup.

“They win the ball deep, move it quickly, and use the pace of Barcola or Dembélé,” said Ince. “That caused problems at Anfield and will cause problems here too. But Inter play three at the back and are very disciplined. They’ll know exactly what to expect.”

Inter, who survived a dramatic quarter-final comeback from Bayern and a semi-final thriller with Barcelona, have shown they can endure adversity. Ince believes their wing-backs — Federico Dimarco and Denzel Dumfries — could be key to unlocking PSG.

“That’s the battle for me. PSG have to deal with the wing-backs — they both get forward, they score goals. That’s going to stretch them.”

See what Paul Ince said

Martinez vs Dembele: Ballon d’Or Stakes?

Ince also highlighted Lautaro Martínez as a potential match-winner, and even a Ballon d’Or candidate if Inter emerge victorious.

“Dembele’s a threat but not a natural striker. Lautaro is. He’s a game-changer. If the game stays tight, Inter grow stronger. But if PSG score first, it opens up and they can be deadly on the break.”

Martínez has nine goals in the competition this season and could seal individual honours with a standout performance.

Match Fitness: Inter’s Hidden Advantage?

While PSG clinched Ligue 1 two months ago and have rotated heavily since, Inter remained locked in a title race right up to the final day — something Ince sees as an advantage.

“Players want rhythm. Inter’s squad is match-sharp, week in, week out. PSG have been resting, and that can go either way. I think Inter will be sharper on the night.”

Makelele: PSG Have Finally Built a Team

On the other side, former PSG captain Claude Makelele believes the Parisians have learned from past mistakes and finally built a team capable of conquering Europe.

“You don’t just collect all the big players and expect to win,” said Makelele. “You need a team. That’s what Luis Enrique has done. He knows how to build unity. He did it at Barcelona and he’s done it here.”

See what Claude Makelele saidGone are the days of relying on superstar individuals like Neymar and Messi. This year’s PSG are more balanced and cohesive — and it’s shown in their results.

“This team has character and leadership. They’re more mature, and that’s what makes the difference at this level.”

“Inter Are Dangerous, But PSG Are Ready”

Despite backing his former club, Makelele acknowledged the threat Inter pose, especially after knocking out Barcelona in dramatic fashion.

“Inter have experience. They’ve been here before. But PSG eliminated Arsenal, and they’ve grown stronger as a team. This is a difficult final to call — but I hope Paris win. I was happy there, I was captain there. This could be their moment.”

Final Verdict

Both Ince and Makelele see strengths in their former clubs — Inter’s structure and resilience versus PSG’s newfound unity and tactical flexibility. With so much at stake, including a potential Ballon d’Or for Lautaro or Dembélé and the chance for either club to define their season, Saturday’s final promises drama, quality, and legacy-defining moments.

Explore all the latest odds and match previews on the bet365 odds page.

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