Javier Zanetti has reflected on adapting to his new role as Vice-President at Inter, but admits he misses aspects already to being a footballer.
The Argentine ended 19 years on the pitch with the Nerazzurri this summer to take up a desk job with the club as part of Erick Thohir’s changing administration.
Considering his new position, the 40-year-old has had only positive things to say.
Javier Zanetti has reflected on adapting to his new role as Vice-President at Inter, but admits he misses aspects already to being a footballer.
The Argentine ended 19 years on the pitch with the Nerazzurri this summer to take up a desk job with the club as part of Erick Thohir’s changing administration.
Considering his new position, the 40-year-old has had only positive things to say.
“I am enthusiastic. I thank Moratti and Thohir for giving me this opportunity to continue here at Inter,” Zanetti has reflected on Inter Channel.
“They have had confidence in me and this fills me with pride. Vice-President is a prestigious role and it is not often that a player finishes a glorious career and is immediately appointed to such a role.
“Yes, that’s why I’d like to thank everyone for the faith they’ve shown in me. I think my career developed over the years and the respect of famous people from all over the world, not just in football, has afforded me this great opportunity.
“I’m a working Vice-President, not simply a title. But a Vice-President who will be out on the field – not the playing field, mind you.
“I’ve always respected these type of roles and perhaps because of this I have understood how to hold a corporate position. The American tour can be considered as my starting point, it was useful to understand some of the dynamics.
“Do I still want to play? In fact, I continue to train and I do not deny that watching training has a certain effect. My wife is worried because, inevitably, I will spend more time at home. Meanwhile, I am studying English and I have to say that I am improving a lot.
“What do I miss most from being a footballer? Well, a little of everything. The air of the dressing room, the training retreat, sharing with my teammates, the training, preparing for a game.
“I hope that this year we can fight for important goals – it will not be easy, we have a young team, but the potential is there to do well.”