Walter Mazzarri has explained why he is not setting an objective this season with Inter, whilst he praises Mauro Icardi’s development.
The Nerazzurri have had a good start to the season derailed after Week 5’s surprise 4-1 reverse at home to Cagliari.
Having admitted that it was right for fans to have whistled the team at full-time, the Coach has outlined why, even now, he wouldn’t take third place in Serie A if offered it.
Walter Mazzarri has explained why he is not setting an objective this season with Inter, whilst he praises Mauro Icardi’s development.
The Nerazzurri have had a good start to the season derailed after Week 5’s surprise 4-1 reverse at home to Cagliari.
Having admitted that it was right for fans to have whistled the team at full-time, the Coach has outlined why, even now, he wouldn’t take third place in Serie A if offered it.
“I am trying to give continuity to this team and a mindset that can in the shortest period of time return the team the size of Inter to competing at its level,” Mazzarri has explained in an interview with ITV Italia.
“The ups and downs of Sunday’s game, for example, indicate to us that there is much work. It is a matter of principle that I do not declare goals, because I am never satisfied, and then if you specify a position it means not having an opportunity, if desired, to do better.
“I believe that what a Coach should do is bring the players to thinking about the next game, that it is the most difficult, so as to see the pitfalls. This is what we have not done with Cagliari.”
It was put to Mazzarri that Juventus and Roma’s 100 per cent starts to the season already have them as outright favourites to compete for the Scudetto.
“At the fifth round of the season, in general, we do not give a definitive opinion. It is clear that Juventus and Roma have started very well and have had very good results. They have created a gap to the pursuers.
“But nothing is final in football, let alone after the fifth round. In Italy we are especially good at taking everything from riches to rags and back again, depending on the situation.
“Three days ago it seemed that Inter were playing well and that their Coach was getting every change correct. Now everything has changed.
“Then, of course if you go wrong as we did [on Sunday] it is right that you are booed. But from there to give a definitive opinion I would pay more attention.
“It is better to keep a greater balance. At least for us on the inside. Let’s waits and see.”
The former Napoli boss was asked about Mauro Icardi’s improved form at the start of this season.
“Beyond the technical and tactical aspects he has matured from a professional point of view. He is working flawlessly.
“Already last year, when he endured many physical problems, he was greatly committed. But this year he is gaining even more from this point of view, which is crucial.
“Matteo Kovacic too has grown a lot, especially in his intensity. The players are on the right track, but should not get distracted.”