Walter Mazzarri blamed the “atmosphere” and lack of enthusiasm for Inter’s failure to beat Catania.
Today’s 0-0 is particularly remarkable considering the Sicilians had lost all their previous away games this season.
Walter Mazzarri blamed the “atmosphere” and lack of enthusiasm for Inter’s failure to beat Catania.
Today’s 0-0 is particularly remarkable considering the Sicilians had lost all their previous away games this season.
“All week the players sensed scepticism from the fans and media. These players are not accustomed to certain pressures and felt the lack of enthusiasm in the stands, as it almost felt as if we were playing in an empty stadium,” shrugged Mazzarri on Sky Sport Italia.
“Unfortunately, the breakthrough incident to score didn’t arrive and the lads did better when the supporters were riled up a bit by going close to a goal. The atmosphere makes a difference, as anyone who played football will know.
“Our heads are not clear and therefore we don’t make the right decisions and feel the pressure when making mistakes.
“I thought the team played in a more relaxed manner in Genoa, as they seemed tense at San Siro. With the atmosphere being what it is at the moment, the squad may well play better away from home. There’s no point denying that.
“Jonathan and Ricky Alvarez, for example, are not accustomed to being protagonists at this level and playing with this sort of pressure. Inter made decisions over the last two years and it will take time to gain experience.
“We could’ve done with a moment of magic. With two or three counter-attacks we even risked losing the game.
“If there is going to be a protest, we request it after the final whistle, because the players need the warmth from the stands during the 90 minutes.”
The protests were also affected by this week’s chaotic collapse of the Fredy Guarin-Mirko Vucinic exchange with Juventus” data-scaytid=”13″>Juventus. Mazzarri has generally refused to comment, but did reveal the fan revolt was not the only reason that move was called off.
“I will only say the fans were not the only reason, as there were other evaluations at the last minute that led to this decision. That’s what the directors told me.
“The club knows what I asked for in the transfer window. I hope they can do those things, but if they don’t then we’ll continue working with this group.”