Leonardo reveals he left Milan due to ‘problems’ with Silvio Berlusconi, explains why he made the switch to rivals Inter and how some reacted to that news with ‘threats.’
The Brazilian spoke to Globoesporte about his long career, which as a player saw him represent the Rossoneri from 1997 to 2001, then again from 2002 until his retirement in 2003.
After that, he remained at Milan as a director and was promoted to coach for the 2009-10 campaign too.
“I started sitting in on Adriano Galliani’s meetings, even when I was still playing. Afterwards, it was like going to university just observing him at work,” said the 54-year-old.
However, the coaching lasted only one season at San Siro before he walked away and now reveals it was a clash with President Berlusconi.
“I had problems with him and that disagreement was why I left Milan. I think it was a difficult moment for him too, as he was Prime Minister, there were lots of things happening…
“In the end, I left because I had been at the club for 13 years and eras must come to an end.”
Surprisingly, Leonardo then accepted the role of Inter coach in December 2010, replacing Rafa Benitez, who in turn had followed in the footsteps of Treble-winner Jose Mourinho.
“In 2010, I just stayed in Milan because I didn’t have anywhere else to go, I was taking a break in my career. Just before Christmas, Massimo Moratti called and I had turned him down so many times before, but this night at his home I had no escape. He got me swept up in the cause, and as always I acted on instinct.”
Not everyone appreciated the switch and some were positively furious with Leonardo for what they saw as a betrayal crossing from the Rossoneri to Nerazzurri.
“There were strong, strong reactions. Not even I expected them to be that strong. After all, players had represented both clubs before.
“My rapport with Milan was deeper, so it was tough every single day. As for when the derby came along… There were threats, but let’s forget about that.
“I remember what Moratti said to me, that it was almost wonderful to see so much reaction for just one person.”