Inter President Massimo Moratti explains why he chose his new Coach. “I trust Leonardo. This was not meant to irritate Milan.”
The Nerazzurri formally announced the replacement for Rafa Benitez on Christmas Eve, despite insisting no statement would be finalised until after the holidays.
“I thought it nice for the fans to spend Christmas knowing the name of their Coach. It seemed to me a good present for them and the supporters certainly deserve it,” Moratti told the Corriere dello Sport.
Inter President Massimo Moratti explains why he chose his new Coach. “I trust Leonardo. This was not meant to irritate Milan.”
The Nerazzurri formally announced the replacement for Rafa Benitez on Christmas Eve, despite insisting no statement would be finalised until after the holidays.
“I thought it nice for the fans to spend Christmas knowing the name of their Coach. It seemed to me a good present for them and the supporters certainly deserve it,” Moratti told the Corriere dello Sport.
There were numerous other contenders, including Fabio Capello, Luciano Spalletti, Guus Hiddink, Walter Zenga and Carlos Dunga.
“I have respected and admired Leo for many years. When it became necessary to replace Benitez, he was free from contracts and it allowed him to join us without the need for further negotiations.
“Leonardo is a very intelligent man, something I noticed back from our first meetings during his playing career. Last season he showed at Milan that he is also a great Coach who can do excellent work.”
The Rossoneri were understandably shocked by the move across San Siro, as the Brazilian had worked for them as player, talent scout, director and Coach.
“We did not choose Leonardo to irritate Milan,” assured Moratti. “We chose him because he has talent and can achieve great things with Inter.
“This will be an interesting adventure for him. He has the time to do things properly, I trust Leonardo and am happy he is with us.”