5 Reasons for Inter's Resurgence This Season

Last year Inter ended the season disillusioned, as their fall from grace landed with a tumultuous bump. They finished ninth in Serie A and were not even close to Europe. The treble winning side coached by that now mythical figure, Jose Mourinho, seemed an extremely distant memory.

Andrea Stramaccioni was relieved of his duties, and Walter Mazzarri took the reigns in the hope that he could recreate some of the football played by his old club, Napoli. The dream seemed far-flung and the mountain almost too high, yet by the middle of November Inter sit fourth, with only one defeat to their name and a somewhat rejuvenated squad.

Walter Mazzarri's Formation

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Walter Mazzarri

The decision to replace Stramaccioni was not universally popular. He had produced some good football, and it was seen that he may be a work in progress, especially due to his age.

Overall, however, many welcomed Mazzarri, and although recognising that he may lack the attacking personnel he had in Naples, this did not stunt the optimism.

Mazzarri immediately steadied the ship, and although deciding to play his trusty formation that transforms between 3-5-2 and 3-3-2-1-1, he managed to strengthen the defence and give the Milanese a new lightning attack.

Unbeaten league leaders Roma are the only team to beat the Nerazzurri, and Mazzarri’s influence has been substantial. He may not always play the exciting style that they tried to play under Stramaccioni, but it is safer and much more deadly.

The Influence of Javier Zanetti

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Javier Zanetti

'Il Capitano' Javier Zanetti had not featured for Inter this season until their last game against Livorno. After rupturing his Achilles tendon last April, the Nerazzurri institution has been training hard to get back.

His efforts to recover and his professionalism have been much talked about by players, fans and coaches alike, and it is no surprise that many of the younger players revere him. He is an inspiration to most, if not all, in the camp, and his influence is felt on and off the field.

This was made evident on his return to action when he received a standing ovation from all in the San Siro. It will come as no shock that he may be offered a new contract until 2015.

The Wing-Backs

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Yuto Nagatomo

Walter Mazzarri has thrust his new formation on his new team, leaving many questioning if the Nerazzurri had the players to pull it off. The wing-backs were certainly a bone of contention with both Jonathan and Yuto Nagatomo still dividing opinion at the start of the season.

The Japanese winger/full-back has been superb, as has his Brazilian counterpart. They have been given the freedom to attack without having to fear too much about what is behind them, as the defensive midfielders are providing cover.

So far this term, it could be argued that they have been the two standout players, as their work rate has been phenomenal. Nagatomo also has some especially impressive statistics going forward with three goals and three assists.

The Best Goalkeeper in Europe?

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Samir Handanovic

Samir Handanovic has been colossal since he arrived at Inter, and this season has been no different. His shot stopping, his handling, his distribution and command of his back line has been nothing short of breathtaking.

The Inter custodian has kept five clean sheets in 11 games, saving 26 shots in the process in Serie A. He had to be influential this season, especially with Inter playing with three center backs, but he has coped with the transition with ease.

It is no surprise that he is being touted as one of the best keepers in Europe right now and has been linked with big money moves away from the San Siro this summer.

Rodrigo Palacio

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Rodrigo Palacio

Rodrigo Palacio is not just an extravagant hairstyle; he is a constant performer with a deadly strike. The Nerazzurri hit man has, like his captain, defied the years and is leading the line by example.

Twelve games, seven goals and four assists from only 24 shots, plus two goals in the Coppa Italia, are evidence of his ability. With the rest of the striking options suffering from various injuries, his form has been crucial to Inter’s resurgence.

If the Argentine continues at this pace, then he could easily push Inter into a Champions League spot at the end of the season. One thing is for sure, less and less of the Inter faithful are complaining that he is on the wrong side of 30.