Javier Zanetti reflected on Inter’s work in the summer transfer window, the growth of Lautaro Martinez and Italy’s failure to qualify for the World Cup in Qatar.
The Nerazzurri seemed set for an exciting summer transfer window, apparently lining up deals for both Dybala and Torino defender Gleison Bremer, but ultimately neither player arrived as they instead focused their efforts on bringing back Romelu Lukaku from Chelsea. Other arrivals in the summer include Kristjan Asllani, Andre Onana and Raoul Bellanova.
Speaking to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Zanetti first confirmed that Inter were in for Dybala before picking up Lukaku.
“Yes, there was negotiations, but when we signed Lukaku we already had an important forward. I think he’s well at Roma. I know Mourinho and I know he can make the most of him.”
He gave his thoughts on Lukaku and his return to the Lombardy capital.
“Together with Lautaro Martinez he did well, let’s hope Lukaku returns as soon as possible because we need him and everyone. They are two important players.”
The Inter vice president discussed the growth of Lautaro and his development at the club.
“We had been following him for a long time, I was talking to Milito who was manager of Racing at the time. The great thing is that when you buy a young player you don’t see what he can give in the immediate future, but what he could give in the next four or five years.
“He is taking the steps that a great player must take, he is a reference point for Inter and the national team. Many compare him to Bati, I’m happy and proud of this because I contributed to getting a player who is now an Inter asset.”
Zanetti spoke about the slow start of Angel Di Maria at Juventus.
“We are talking about a player who has made a difference everywhere. I hope that this nervousness he has at Juve doesn’t affect him at the World Cup, but it happens when the team is in difficulty.”
Finally, Zanetti commented on Italy’s failure to qualify for the upcoming World Cup in Qatar and the impact that it’s had.
“I’m sorry, I feel Italian and not seeing the national team at the World Cup makes me sad. I know Mancio, I know how much he cares. You have to get up, defeat must make you stronger.
“How are our Italians taking it? They’re not living it well, with great sadness because they gave everything to have this chance to go to the World Cup.
“They will have to live this month as fans, sure they are young and they will have another chance to try. I’m happy if so many Italians will support Argentina.”