Simone Inzaghi reflected on his first season with Inter, the title race this campaign and his relationship with Milan coach Stefano Pioli.
The 46-year-old Italian coach took over at the Nerazzurri last year, filling the void left behind by Antonio Conte’s departure. Signing a three-year contract, Inzaghi has overseen 73 Inter matches, picking up 2.10 points per game on average. He also guided the team to the Scudetto in his first season but lost out to intercity rivals Milan by just two points.
Speaking to Sportmediaset, Inzaghi first looked back at his debut season with Inter.
“As a first season we did very well, we achieved Champions League qualification to the Round of 16, something that the fans had been waiting over a decade for, we played it to the best with Liverpool.
“It was a great season that could have become extraordinary with the Scudetto. The goal that we, the players and the club set for ourselves is to win: it’s nice to play, but it’s very important to win.”
He touched on the Nerazzurri’s chances of challenging for the league title this season.
“I believe in it, absolutely. A season so broken is something new for everyone, with this very long break.
“Napoli have done something extraordinary so far, they’ve amplified the mistakes of the other teams, starting with Inter. Clearly last year the table was closer, we were all within three points. But I believe in us.”
The 46-year-old Italian commented on last season’s Supercoppa Italiana success.
“I had a good sprint! Then I realized that the guys were going the other way, I still didn’t know if it was the final whistle, but if I had known it was over I probably would have kept running.”
Inzaghi spoke about his relationship with the Inter players.
“In all the years I have been coaching I know that no one has ever disrespected me, and that is the most important thing. It is known that I have a great relationship with my staff and my players, but always respecting the roles.”
He touched on his relationship with his Milan counterpart Pioli.
“With Pioli at Lazio there was a great relationship, we even stayed at the table talking. He is a great person, over the years we met many times but there was always great mutual respect.”
The Inter coach looked to explain where his team lost the Scudetto last season.
“There are those who say there was a foul on Sanchez on Giroud’s goal and the referee at three meters could have called it. With ifs and buts you don’t make history, the facts say that unfortunately we lost that derby.”
Finally, Inzaghi spoke about if it was stressful to coach the Nerazzurri.
“There’s pressures and responsibilities, but I must say that I always remain myself, trying to improve every day.
“Milan has welcomed me, my wife and my children in the best way, we have settled in well and I want to continue like this, trying to bring trophies to my club and always trying to improve myself.”
Yeah Napoli have done something extraordinary but how many mistakes will you make?? I