Inter striker Edin Dzeko stresses that the match against Napoli is worth three points ‘like any other game’ and insists he is not considering retiring: ‘I am happy here.’
The Bosnia international started in a 5-0 win over RB Salzburg on Wednesday and is ready to resume the campaign with the Nerazzurri.
“We must give our all, the team is what matters the most. I always give my best. I don’t only think about scoring goals, I care about the team’s good and I am the happiest person when we win,” he told Sky Sport.
Inter beat Atalanta 3-2 in the last game before the World Cup break in November and resume the campaign on January 4 in a key home fixture against table leaders Napoli, the only unbeaten team in Italy’s top flight.
“The match with Napoli is worth three points, like any other game. There’s no difference between Napoli and Empoli, but a win would boost our self-confidence,” said Dzeko.
“Napoli are a strong team. Honestly, I didn’t expect them to start so strong, winning 13 games from 15. Hopefully, they will slow down,” he said, smiling.
The Nerazzurri have qualified for the Champions League Round of 16, finishing runners-up to Bayern Munich and collecting four points in two games against Barcelona, who were dropped to Europa League for the second season in a row.
“The Champions League is the most important competition and we footballers feel great when we hear the anthem,” admitted the experienced striker.
“Surely, we want to do great things, but first, we play in Serie A, Coppa Italia and Supercup. We want to do more than last year in the Champions League.”
Dzeko is Inter’s best scorer so far this season, but his contract expires in June. There are rumours that he could leave for the MLS or even retire in the summer.
“I am happy at Inter, I think about training, other people are in charge of the rest.
“Retirement? I haven’t thought about it and don’t want to do it. I feel I can still give a lot to football.”