Inter defender Francesco Acerbi has disclosed his profound reflections after netting a pivotal goal against Barcelona last season. He also staunchly asserts that his Inter squad exerted maximum effort despite their heavy 5-0 defeat to PSG in the Champions League final.
Acerbi`s recently published biography provides insight into Inter`s remarkable Champions League journey last season, culminating in their second final appearance in three years.
The Nerazzurri secured their progression to the final by overcoming Barcelona in the semi-finals, a crucial feat significantly boosted by Acerbi`s late equalizer, which propelled the match into extra time.
Acerbi Reflects on His Life and Career After Crucial Barcelona Goal
“In that fleeting moment, my entire life flashed before my eyes,” the defender recounted. “My journey through Lazio, Sassuolo, overcoming illness, and then, my very first Champions League goal. Every victory, every defeat – my whole career condensed into a single, intense second.”
However, Inter`s dream of glory ended in disappointment as they suffered a comprehensive 5-0 defeat against PSG in the final, held at the Allianz Arena in Munich this past May.
Acerbi remarked, “Football, sadly, offers no handouts. We reached the final, but the outcome wasn`t the one we envisioned. We battled PSG in Munich, yet it wasn`t enough. What endures is the immense pride from an unforgettable journey, coupled with the profound disappointment of the result. In football, just like in life, you don`t always emerge victorious. For every winner, there’s an inevitable loser – it’s simply part of the game.”
Acerbi: “No Regrets, We Gave Our All”
“I am certain I have no cause for self-reproach,” Acerbi affirmed. “We poured our hearts into it. To reach two Champions League finals in three years wearing this jersey, overcoming countless adversities, is a source of pride that no one can ever diminish – not even a defeat in the final.”
The 37-year-old defender`s current contract with Inter is scheduled to expire in June 2026.
The experienced Italy international moved to the Milanese club from Lazio during the summer transfer window of 2022.
