Claudio Ranieri could only “apologise to our President and fans” after Inter’s humiliating 3-0 home defeat to Bologna, but will not resign.
In a very unusual move, President Massimo Moratti walked out at half-time when his side were still 2-0 down.
Claudio Ranieri could only “apologise to our President and fans” after Inter’s humiliating 3-0 home defeat to Bologna, but will not resign.
In a very unusual move, President Massimo Moratti walked out at half-time when his side were still 2-0 down.
“We all saw, we’re not giving what we can and are going through a difficult period. We have to take our responsibility and apologise to our President and fans. They tried to cheer us on and then the third goal naturally prompted all that frustration to emerge,” said Ranieri.
“In one minute we conceded two goals after going so close ourselves. All we can do is stick together. I expected a difficult game and realised there was pressure, but not to this degree.”
“We have to analyse the situation, as we concede at the first mistake. We had found a balance and tactical unity that was truly exceptional, but we lost it and now have to discuss which is the best solution.”
Ranieri was asked whether he would consider handing in his resignation after five defeats in the last six games in all competition.
“No, I’m not planning anything. We are all united in wanting to find the solution. It’s difficult to get back up, but we must.”
Wesley Sneijder’s return has strangely coincided with a disastrous turn in Inter’s results, as his presence ruins the 4-4-2 system that notched up seven consecutive Serie A victories in December and January.
“He should be our extra man behind the striker, but when I see we have trouble then I send him out wide so he can play without having to win back the ball. That forces me to readjust the whole team. We’ll have to see what we can do.”
Ranieri also received jeers from the fans when he substituted striker Diego Forlan with midfielder Andrea Poli.
“I know we were losing 2-0, but putting on another striker would’ve made it impossible. It’s too easy to say that, but if the house is crumbling then you don’t add more tiles. Instead, you try to strengthen the foundations.
“At the moment we are struggling to reach the by-line and provide service for Giampaolo Pazzini. We will not give up, tomorrow we’ll talk it over and find the right solution, then prepare for the Champions League.”
Inter visit Olympique Marseille in the first leg of their Champions League Round of 16 encounter on Wednesday.