Yann Sommer’s Heroics Highlight Inter Milan’s Transfer Genius in Champions League Run

Inter Milan’s stunning 4-3 victory over Barcelona in the UEFA Champions League semi-final second leg at San Siro has spotlighted their shrewd transfer strategy, with goalkeeper Yann Sommer earning widespread acclaim. Sommer, signed for just £5 million in 2023 after Inter sold André Onana to Manchester United for £50 million, was named UEFA Man of the Match for his pivotal saves, securing Inter’s place in the final against either Arsenal or PSG.

The 36-year-old Swiss goalkeeper, who joined Inter from Bayern Munich, has been a revelation, embodying the experience of Inter’s seventh-oldest Champions League semi-final starting XI (average age: 30 years, 56 days). His performance against Barcelona, including a "special save" from Lamine Yamal, contrasted sharply with Onana’s struggles at United, where the Cameroonian has been dropped following high-profile errors, including a 2-2 draw against Lyon in April 2025.

Inter’s transfer dealings have been hailed as a masterstroke, with fans and analysts on X calling it “the best bit of business in recent history.” Data from the 2022-23 Champions League season shows Onana kept 8 clean sheets for Inter, but Sommer’s consistency—evidenced by his league-high clean sheets in 2023-24—has proven invaluable. As Inter chase their first Champions League title since 2010, Sommer’s heroics have not only justified the club’s faith but also exposed United’s gamble on Onana, leaving the Nerazzurri on the brink of European glory.