Inter director Beppe Marotta describes the Super League as ‘an act of desperation’ from 12 clubs that was ‘not rational or logical, but did send a signal.’
The announcement of the breakaway league took everyone by surprise and the entire project had crumbled within 48 hours, with all but three clubs pulling out.
Only Juventus, Barcelona and Real Madrid remain, but the others – including Inter and Milan – reaffirmed their fealty to UEFA.
“It was an act of desperation from 12 clubs in reaction to a concept that lacked sustainability,” Marotta said on stage at the Foglio Sportivo event today.
“These clubs, who are among the most exposed on the European stage, realised that after the pandemic, the debts were growing.
“So there was this move, made in a way that was not exactly rational or logical, but it did send a signal. Today the Italian and European football model does not work: the institutions must intervene to create a sustainable model.
“The pandemic only intensified the difficult situation that the world of football was already in. We are facing a very worrying scenario today: a model that no longer sustains certain costs and cannot make the most of its resources.
“There are two types of revenue: TV rights and ticket sales. We, as Inter, missed out on €70m from stadium revenue this season. That is like four months worth of wages.”
A group representing the Inter ultras visited the club headquarters yesterday to protest Antonio Conte’s exit and Marotta reveals what he said to them.
“I thought the simplest thing to do would be to speak with three representatives. I outlined the situation at the club that is going through a difficult moment.
“They understood and today released a statement confirming they understood the difficulties, albeit of course affirming that Inter’s history is not up for debate.
“Football often has the equation that those who spend the most money end up winning, but it’s also true that you can win without big investments. You have to bridge that gap with competence and motivation.
“The players and fans must be made aware of the situation, because we all need to lower the costs.”