Inter CEO Beppe Marotta believes Simone Inzaghi is one of Italy’s most winning coaches and admits selling Achraf Hakimi was a ‘painful decision.’
Inzaghi was unveiled as the new Inter coach at a press conference at the Stadio San Siro today.
The former Lazio coach has replaced Antonio Conte, who parted ways with the Nerazzurri after winning the Serie A title last term.
“We begin a season that will be difficult, as usual,” Marotta said.
“We are proud to unveil our new coach because the Inter project continues with a new, young and winning boss. We think he is the most prepared person and one who embodies the principles of this club.
“We are going through a difficult and in some ways disturbing time after the pandemic, also as a result of the world economy. As a reflection, football is now looking for a sustainable model.
“Surely, Inter want to continue on the same path as last season, looking at the economic and financial aspects. The owners want to build a competitive team, they’ve invested over €700m and football is paying the consequences of what has just happened.
“It’s unthinkable to ask for the same efforts. We made painful choices like the one of selling Hakimi but always trying to give continuity.”
The Morocco international has joined PSG on a €71m deal.
The Serie A giants needed to sell at least one of their stars to keep the books balanced.
“We are waiting for the fans’ return to the stadium,” Marotta continued.
“I wish the government will soon re-open stadiums which are important assets for every club.
“The Lega and the clubs are in talks to re-open the stadiums, there are millions of people who got vaccinated and this could push even more people to get it.
“We know the stadiums could be re-opened, we don’t know if completely or just partially, but it would already be a great success.
“First of all it’s sad to play without fans, secondly, but not most importantly, Inter lost €100m between 2019 and 2021 in matchday revenues.”
Inter’s pre-season begins tomorrow at Appiano Gentile, but many players are still on holiday after the Euros and the Copa America, and others are still involved in both competitions.
Inter striker Lautaro Martinez scored a goal in the Copa America semi-final between Argentina and Colombia last night, but the Seleccion won 3-2 on penalties.