Movistar Inter has kicked off the league in spectacular fashion, winning all seven of their games and reigniting the passion of their fans. After three seasons without titles or finals appearances, the club has revamped its squad with impressive results. Under the guidance of Alberto Riquer, they sit as undefeated leaders. On Saturday (5:00 p.m., Teledeporte), they face Barça at the Palau. Inter boasts the league’s best offense (33 goals, averaging 4.7 per game) and defense (9 goals conceded, 1.2 per game), numbers not seen since the 2016-17 season.
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Coach Alberto Riquer expressed his satisfaction, saying, “I’m happy to build confidence and thrilled to inspire excitement.” He emphasized the team’s strong mentality, focusing on each game and play. Riquer also praised his players’ humility, work ethic, and clarity of purpose. While star signing Lucao is still settling in, other new arrivals like Bebe and Chaguinha (6 goals in 7 games) have made a seamless impact, forming a formidable trio with top scorer Cecilio Morales (8 goals). Morales, who scored a hat-trick in their 6-0 victory over Peñíscola, leads this resurgent team. Riquer credited sports director César Muñoz for assembling the right player profiles.
ElPozo Murcia Costa Cálida is the only team keeping pace, trailing by two points after six wins and a draw. Saturday’s clash against Barça will test Inter’s title credentials. Barça, currently fourth with five wins in seven matches, remains unbeaten at the Palau, although their three home victories have all been narrow (e.g., 3-2 vs. Manzanares). Historically, the two sides have met 50 times in the league since 2008-09, with Barça winning 22, Inter 20, and eight draws. Their last encounter at the Palau ended in a 7-2 Inter triumph.
Barça coach Tino Pérez, who led Inter to their last titles before being dismissed in 2022, now faces his former team. “They’re confident and performing well. We’re improving, competitive, and capable of beating them,” he stated, despite dealing with injuries, including captain Sergio Lozano, sidelined for six weeks with a leg injury. Saturday’s game also holds significance for Fits, a former Inter player who joined Barça this season. Pérez anticipates an exciting, open match, saying, “These are the games coaches love.”
