Erick Thohir does not see Walter Mazzarri’s dismissal after weeks of support as a lack of respect, as he calls on ‘maximum support’ for Roberto Mancini.
Erick Thohir does not see Walter Mazzarri’s dismissal after weeks of support as a lack of respect, as he calls on ‘maximum support’ for Roberto Mancini.
The Indonesian had strenuously supported Mazzarri and backed him to continue as Nerazzurro Coach, before then replacing him with Mancini last Friday.
“It is important that the Coach has the faith and loyalty of the team. Last year Mazzarri took us into Europe, so we extended his contract,” Thohir explained to reporters after today’s shareholders’ meeting.
“But as I told everyone, we need the results, we aim for Europe. And he is one of the best Coaches in Italian football, but sometimes when the results stagnate, we as directors have to figure out how to achieve our objectives.
“It is not my decision, it is one made with Inter. I do not believe there has been a lack of respect for Mazzarri, we have always supported him and also ask that everyone backs Mancini.
“For me it is important to know that everyone is happy with Mancini signing, with a three-year contract and a new project. You have to give the fullest support to the team.
“What happened can happen in football, as a leader you have my word – we believe in the project. But if there are no results then something has to be done for Inter, not for personal gain.
“Mancini comes here and takes a risk, as the next three games will not be easy.
“It would be great to win them all, but it will not be easy. So give maximum support to the team, all of us have made the right decision.”