Andrea Ranocchia says Inter must develop their defence to 'get to the next level' and dismisses rumours about losing the captain's armband.
The Nerazzurri's central defender gave an extensive interview to La Gazzetta dello Sport, in which he was able to discuss the team's development since their 1-0 friendly defeat against Bayern Munich.
“We played a good game, but of course against a team like that you'll pay dearly for any individual mistake,” he said.
Andrea Ranocchia says Inter must develop their defence to 'get to the next level' and dismisses rumours about losing the captain's armband.
The Nerazzurri's central defender gave an extensive interview to La Gazzetta dello Sport, in which he was able to discuss the team's development since their 1-0 friendly defeat against Bayern Munich.
“We played a good game, but of course against a team like that you'll pay dearly for any individual mistake,” he said.
“It's been an excellent test that will help us as we continue to develop.”
The 27-year-old stressed that improving their defence from last year would be key for Inter to reach their targets.
“Having solid foundations is everything. In [Serie] A the team that takes the least goals is almost invariably the one that wins.
“In training we put enormous effort into defensive work. And I mean the whole team, not just the four players at the back.
“To truly get to the next level we need to be able to defend ourselves with eleven players.
“If you want to win, then you must learn to take pressure. We must set ourselves the Champions League objective, but in the locker room, without public proclamations.
“[Coach Roberto] Mancini? He's enormously driven. Being able to choose his men according to his requirements, being in charge of the training preparations and the tactical work from the very outset, that makes a difference.”
Ranocchia also found the time to discuss his personal career.
“As for the criticism, my supposed lack of drive, I really couldn't care less.
“Every summer they say I'm no longer a starter, and then I end up playing.
“You have to prove things on the pitch. I always walk out of it with my shirt drenched in sweat, I give everything I've got for these colours.
“About the idea that I might no longer be the captain, that's only been discussed by the media, no-one in the club mentioned it.
“I'm perfectly calm, and I'd stay exactly the same way even if I weren't wearing the armband.”