Filippo Inzaghi has taken to the stage to conduct an interview on the final day of the Festival dello Sport, an industry event organised by La Gazzetta dello Sport, during which he spoke of his World Cup memories and ambitions with Salernitana.
The 50-year-old became the first new managerial appointment of the 2023-24 season in Serie A, replacing Paulo Sousa, who had failed to win any of his first eight matches of the league campaign.
His most recent experience in coaching came at Reggina, where he had led the team to a spot in the promotion play-offs before being released alongside all of his staff and players as the team were expelled from the league due to their financial difficulties.
“That is still an open wound,” Inzaghi told the audience in Trento. But, these things will help me move forwards with more desire.”
Before that, though, Inzaghi had coached at five different clubs, including a spell in charge of his beloved Milan.
“I had been coaching the Primavera at Mila, but when they called me and asked if I wanted to take charge of the first team, I couldn’t refuse. How could you say no? I put my absolute everything into it.
“Thanks to that experience, my real career as a coach began.”
Then, discussing his new project with Salernitana, Inzaghi said: “In Salerno, we have some of the best fans in Italy. I love the passion of the people and, for me, football is for the fans.
“Results are only achieved with serious, hard work. I always try to be honest with my players. On a personal level, the last year has not been particularly easy.”
Inzaghi was also asked what he thought of the current Italy national team set-up.
He responded: “Now, the Italy team is in excellent hands, there are some very good young players around. In my time, the attackers that Italy had were all so strong, I hope that the team will do well again.”
Then came questions about his own experiences with the Azzurri, particularly on his memories of winning the 2006 World Cup.
“When you’re at a World Cup, the important thing is to bring home results. I didn’t play much, but it was an unforgettable experience, so satisfying.”
“For great champions, the decision to call it a day on playing is extremely difficult and, at many times, we don’t understand it. After my last game, with our goal already secured, I thought it couldn’t have gone any better on reflection.”