Inter coach Inzaghi responds to questions about Dybala

Simone Inzaghi was not keen to discuss expiring Juventus forward Paulo Dybala ahead of Inter’s match against Atalanta tomorrow.

The Nerazzurri have recently opened talks with the 28-year-old Argentinian forward’s agent Jorge Antun, following the news that he will not be signing a contract renewal with the Bianconeri. The Milanese club have already prepared a five-year contract offer for the talented forward.

Speaking to gathered reporters in a press conference, Inzaghi first discussed Inter’s successful Supercoppa Italiana final against Juventus.

“I think we deservedly won against an opponent who played an excellent match. We did well because we remained focused despite the disadvantage.

“We deserved it and I’m happy to see the guys like that, it was a great moment with our fans. But now this cup is already in the past, let’s get rid of the euphoria because Bergamo will be complicated.”

He touched on if he’s been inspired by Atalanta coach Gian Piero Gasperini.

“Gasperini has been doing well for many years at Atalanta, football has evolved over the years and occupying space at the right time is increasingly important.

“It’s going to be a good, physical game, one to be experienced. Like the first leg, with a very high tempo.”

The former Lazio coach feels that this is a key game in the title race this season.

“Absolutely, Atalanta are in fourth place and they’re improving all the time. It’s a title race match.”

Inzaghi commented on Alexis Sanchez’s recent form and if he’s ready to shine in Milan now.

“Sanchez has been decisive and I am happy to coach him. For a coach, to see the action that determined the match, with the four players who came on during the match and Vidal was also decisive with his entrance, is a great satisfaction.

“Sanchez is a great asset, but I’ll evaluate him for the game against Atalanta. But I’ve already said it, Sanchez is a champion who always wants to learn, he didn’t need the goal against Juve, he’s already settled down for two months.”

He gave his thoughts on Juventus talisman Dybala amidst the recent links.

“I’ve read and heard things but I don’t like talking about players from other teams, I’m proud of the ones I have. Starting with Satriano who left yesterday.”

The 45-year-old Italian coach discussed any changes in his approach.

“I think the awareness, I also watched the first leg against Atalanta and we always expressed good football. Then certain moments made us lose points.

“But I think the awareness and the consistency of performance and results has motivated us and now even those who are brought on are doing it at their best. The Supercoppa is a clear example.”

He highlighted the difficulties in tomorrow’s match against Atalanta.

“We know that against Atalanta and certain teams you have to win a lot of individual challenges and remain focused. We’ll have to know how to suffer and be able to put the Supercoppa victory behind us because it will be a very important Scudetto challenge.”

The Inter coach revealed why he has such a strong record in cup finals.

“The secret is to have the players I had at Lazio and Inter, who don’t get certain games wrong.”

He provided an update on the January transfer market.

“I am always in great contact with the president and then I have the great fortune of having Marotta, Ausilio and Baccin working 24 hours a day. We see that they are all trying to improve the team and if there is an opportunity we will be ready.”

Finally, Inzaghi discussed Matias Vecino and Stefano Sensi, two midfielders linked with moves away from the Nerazzurri.

“They’ve had less playing time at the moment, but I’ve spoken to them and I think they’re two players I’d always keep with me. When I’ve used them, and I remember Sensi against Genoa or Vecino against Atalanta, they’ve done very well.

“At the moment they’re playing less but if they stay they’ll find minutes. Then if they want to play all the time we’ll understand, but the club know what I think of them.”

Vigilia di #AtalantaInter: in diretta la conferenza stampa di mister Inzaghi https://t.co/X3sDHbLzx0

— Inter (@Inter) January 15, 2022