Inter director Beppe Marotta is ‘optimistic’ going into the Europa League Final against Sevilla, because Antonio Conte is the ‘architect’ of a new positive mood in the squad.
It kicks off at 20.00 UK time (19.00 GMT), click here for the line-ups and LIVEBLOG.
Inter director Beppe Marotta is ‘optimistic’ going into the Europa League Final against Sevilla, because Antonio Conte is the ‘architect’ of a new positive mood in the squad.
It kicks off at 20.00 UK time (19.00 GMT), click here for the line-ups and LIVEBLOG.
“This represents an important achievement to recognise the work done by the coach and players. It’s a source of pride for the club, as we haven’t been able to lift a trophy for some time, so are awaiting that magic moment,” Marotta told Sky Sport Italia.
“We are ready and feeling the tension of the occasion, but on the other hand also the sharpness. We know games last 105 minutes nowadays, but we have faith, as Conte has experience in these important events as both a player and a coach, so I feel optimistic.”
The starting XI has been the same for five games running, including Alessandro Bastoni, Danilo D’Ambrosio, Roberto Gagliardini and Nicolò Barella.
“It makes us very proud to have four Italians in the starting XI. This experience at club level ensures that when players go on international duty, they are already prepared and raring to go,” continued Marotta.
“It’s important for all Serie A clubs fighting for silverware to have an Italian core, just as we did in our first Juventus side.”
President Steven Zhang is in the stands today in Cologne, accompanied by ex-Inter star Luis Figo, so has the tension of previous weeks been resolved?
“The club is present and close to the squad. The coach has immense experience, as does Lele Oriali in his staff, so they are able to give the right atmosphere.
“The Chinese owners are also working hard to give the right feel to the occasion and we hope for a successful outcome.
“Over the last month, we have been comforted by winning results that were not a fluke, but a clear sign of the great rapport between the players.
“The coach is the architect of that mood, that bond, and taking part in the training ground games is a great sign of that.”