Simone Inzaghi is fast becoming a nightmare for teams built around the famed “Barça DNA.” First, he knocked out FC Barcelona with Inter Milan in the Champions League semifinals, and now he’s done it again—this time eliminating Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City with Al Hilal in the Round of 16 of the 2025 Club World Cup.

How Did Inzaghi Shut Down Barcelona in the Champions League?

Back in May, Inzaghi delivered a masterclass in tactical discipline with Inter, neutralizing Hansi Flick’s possession-based system. Using a compact mid-block, effective transitions, and sharp marking, Inter cut off the connection between Barça’s midfield and wingers, making their usual build-up ineffective.

The result was a painful exit for the Catalan club and a reminder of how structured, reactive football can break down even the most possession-heavy sides.

How Did He Stun Manchester City in the Club World Cup?

Just this week, Al Hilal pulled off one of the tournament’s biggest shocks, beating Manchester City 4–3 in extra time at Camping World Stadium in Orlando. Once again, Inzaghi executed a game plan based on resilience, tactical discipline, and clinical transitions.

Goals from Marcos Leonardo, Malcom, and Kalidou Koulibaly powered the Saudi side past the reigning European champions, who failed to impose their style and were repeatedly exposed in transition.

What Did Inzaghi Say About Guardiola?

Despite the monumental win, Inzaghi was full of praise:

“Guardiola is the best coach in the world,” he stated at the post-match press conference.

Still, he highlighted the elements that defined Al Hilal’s victory:

“Heart, organization, and technique,” adding that the challenge felt like “climbing Everest without oxygen.”

A poetic metaphor—and a fitting one—for a coach who continues to defy expectations and take down the architects of modern possession football.