Pippo Inzaghi reveals how he felt to be offered his dream Milan job and admits mistakes made this summer.
Pippo Inzaghi reveals how he felt to be offered his dream Milan job and admits mistakes made this summer.
SuperPippo sat down with La Gazzetta dello Sport for a lengthy interview and looked back over the day he was asked to take over by President Silvio Berlusconi.
“It was May 31. That evening the words of the President meant so much to me. It had been clear something was happening in the days leading up to that meeting, but the arrival at his home, the phrasing, the realisation it was all true… Wonderful.
“We had dinner and watched Italy on television. I remember all too well, as it was the game when Riccardo Montolivo got injured.”
Inzaghi had already been a Coach for two years at Milan’s youth academy, having retired in July 2012, a month short of his 39th birthday.
“As a player I also put the good of the team above anything else. The collective always gets the best out of the individual,” continued Inzagol.
“I never go off and relax. I arrive at Milanello first thing in the morning and leave late at night. I interact a great deal with my staff, who I thank for their passion and competence. Fortunately Milanello is a lovely training ground, as I practically live here.
“I do a marvellous job in a club that gave me so much. The fans are close to me and I hope to give great satisfaction to them and the President.
“Soon the self-belief of our lads will grow, but I am already proud of my Milan’s identity: we never give in. Anyone who beats us has to be stronger, not someone who wants it more.”
The season did not start in the most reassuring way with some heavy defeats during a summer tour of the USA.
“We didn’t plan our summer friendlies well, as we weren’t ready and took on very strong teams. There was the risk of damaging morale, but the players reacted very well.
“I am motivated by the idea of working to help the club during a tricky moment. I am fortunate enough to coach the team I love. I hope to have the time to work calmly and bring Milan back to its usual level.”