Marko Arnautovic has given his first interview as a new Inter player, explaining what has changed for him in the 13 years since he last turned out for the Nerazzurri.
On Wednesday evening, Inter unveiled Arnautovic as a new player, joining from Bologna on an initial loan deal with the option to buy, which becomes mandatory if certain conditions are met.
Speaking to Inter’s internal club media, the 34-year-old said that he was delighted to pull on the Nerazzurri shirt again at what is an entirely different stage of his career.
“I am extremely happy. For me, it’s a massive honour to play for Inter again,” Arnautovic said after signing his contract at Inter’s headquarters.
“I started here 13 years ago, more as a fan than a player, but now I am here to help the squad to win something.”
Arnautovic had been part of the treble-winning squad under Jose Mourinho in 2009-10, as a 20-year-old on loan from FC Twente at the time.
When asked what had changed since the last time he represented Inter, he replied: “A lot. I was a bit of a hot-head 13 years ago, I wasn’t concentrating as much on my football, but now it is completely different. I have a family and everything is completely calm.
“I’ve also grown in Italy as a character. I hope that everything goes well.”
When asked what characteristics he hopes to bring to Simone Inzaghi’s team, Arnautovic suggested: “I think that my technique is something that sums me up, physically I am strong, but ultimately I came here to score goals and that is what I hope to do.”
However, winning trophies is the main reason behind Arnautovic’s move from Bologna.
“I came here, as I’ve already said, because I want to win something and here at Inter, you have to win something. I came here to lift a trophy. Again, I’m really happy.
“I can’t wait to step out onto the pitch and start training with my teammates, and finally to begin the season on Saturday, hopefully starting with a win.”