Javier Zanetti explained his decision to retire and this “unforgettable” night with the Inter fans.

“I am crying inside from joy, emotion and affection that I feel from these fans. This night was unforgettable,” the captain told Sky Sport Italia.

Javier Zanetti explained his decision to retire and this “unforgettable” night with the Inter fans.

“I am crying inside from joy, emotion and affection that I feel from these fans. This night was unforgettable,” the captain told Sky Sport Italia.

“So many images went through my mind. I’ve been wearing this shirt and this armband for so many years. I have to thank the people and the Moratti family for the career I’ve had and the love they continue to show me.

“Before the game I saw the atmosphere and that will remain with me forever. I’ve experienced so many moments with these people over the years and have always been proud to defend this jersey.”

‘Pupi’ has decided to hang up his boots just weeks away from his 41st birthday and will become an Inter director.

“The objective for me last year was to come back from the injury. It was difficult to make this decision, but I’ve given all I had, the important thing was to end in good shape physically, psychologically and now try to help the club in a different way.”
During his speech to the crowd, Zanetti’s son Tommy was running around with a ball on the San Siro turf. Will he follow in his father’s footsteps?

“We’ll accompany him as long as we can, but he does seem to have the right moves to be a player!”

Zanetti also called out players who are expected to leave Inter this summer: Diego Milito, Walter Samuel and Luca Castellazzi, but also Esteban Cambiasso. Does this mean the midfielder is going too?

“No, I just wanted to salute him, as he’s a great man who has given his all for this shirt.”

Read Jeremy Lim's blog on why Zanetti is Inter's past, present and future.

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