Vice-President of Inter Javier Zanetti has ‘respect for Walter Mazzarri's work’, but says now it is time to think of the upcoming derby.
The Nerazzurri head into the weekend’s derby with a new Coach in Roberto Mancini on their bench.
Vice-President of Inter Javier Zanetti has ‘respect for Walter Mazzarri's work’, but says now it is time to think of the upcoming derby.
The Nerazzurri head into the weekend’s derby with a new Coach in Roberto Mancini on their bench.
“This is such a beautiful week because the derby is just around the corner, and it's a strongly-felt game that everybody wants to play,” Zanetti has declared to Sky Sport Italia in build-up.
“My favourite memory is tied to the record-breaking game, the 45th derby as a player, when my friend Walter [Samuel] scored.
“In the next derby there's going to be the new Coach, there will be enthusiasm. Winning a game like this can be a confidence-booster.”
Zanetti had some kind words about Mancini.
“I had the good fortune of being the captain in his Inter, when we started winning. He did a great job.
“Now he is back and brings enthusiasm, and experience from other countries.
“He will attempt to give his contribution to the Inter family, to give the tifosi a team that can fight for important objectives.
“The group is motivated, but it takes time, because he needs to get to know the players – I have seen the willingness of all to be able to do good for Inter.
“Am I more involved now Mancini is here? I have always been, I am always available to the club, according to Thohir and the directors.
“Now I will be closer to the squad, but there is respect for the roles everyone has.”
The Argentine was perhaps less expansive about Mazzarri.
“Changing Coaches is not a pleasure, we had respect for Mazzarri's work,” he conceded briefly.
“But now let's think about Sunday. The players are motivated. Because the game comes at a key moment and they will be giving their all for a victory.”