Gian Piero Gasperini was impressed with Inter's 2-0 victory over Celtic and prepares to face Manchester City this afternoon.
“It was a shame we went down to 10 men before the break, especially as it changed the tone of the match,” he said of Thiago Motta's double booking.
Gian Piero Gasperini was impressed with Inter's 2-0 victory over Celtic and prepares to face Manchester City this afternoon.
“It was a shame we went down to 10 men before the break, especially as it changed the tone of the match,” he said of Thiago Motta's double booking.
“We had everything we needed to put in a great 90-minute performance, but instead more than anything else it became a defensive approach in the second half. It was a good one, though, as we have solid foundations.
“Before the red card I saw a great Inter side that had made steps forward in attack, especially with the movement from the wide strikers. Giampaolo Pazzini and Luc Castaignos scored wonderful goals.
“Does Thiago Motta deserve a telling off? A little bit, yes. I know him well and am focusing on this player a great deal for this season.”
As well as Thiago Motta's dismissal, Gasperini was forced to replace Yuto Nagatomo after just 10 minutes when he dislocated his shoulder.
“That is the only negative aspect of the day. Unfortunately it was a risk we knew that we were going into with these friendly tournaments, as we certainly won't be taking Nagatomo with us for the Italian Super Cup against Milan.”” data-scaytid=”2″>Milan.”
That match is on August 6 at the Bird's Nest Stadium in Beijing between Coppa Italia winners Inter and Scudetto holders Milan.
The Nerazzurri challenge Manchester City for the Dublin Cup this afternoon, kick-off at 16.30 UK time at the Aviva Stadium.
“It doesn't matter if City use their strongest starting line-up, as they faced the weakest team of the tournament yesterday by beating the Irish XI 3-0.
“On the other hand, we had a genuine battle against Celtic. We didn't want to approach the game this way, but Celtic did and we paid for it with a red card and Nagatomo's injury.”
Inter have been heavily linked with Carlos Tevez, so has Gasperini spoken to Roberto Mancini about transfers?
“No,” was the tactician's brusque reply.