Gianfranco Zola felt “close” to the Inter job and laughed off the Chelsea steward who wouldn’t let him into Stamford Bridge.
‘Magic Box’ had been in negotiations with the Inter hierarchy when Frank de Boer was sacked, but the job went to Stefano Pioli instead.
“I was close, but I knew it was a much sought-after position and there were many high-profile Coaches in the running,” Zola told Sky Sport Italia.
Gianfranco Zola felt “close” to the Inter job and laughed off the Chelsea steward who wouldn’t let him into Stamford Bridge.
‘Magic Box’ had been in negotiations with the Inter hierarchy when Frank de Boer was sacked, but the job went to Stefano Pioli instead.
“I was close, but I knew it was a much sought-after position and there were many high-profile Coaches in the running,” Zola told Sky Sport Italia.
“I did for a moment believe the dream, but it would’ve been a pleasure. It remains an honour to have been linked to them. The Inter project has enormous potential.
“This club has such a strong history behind it and that is a guarantee, while the owners bring great financial solidity. The project is serious, the potential is there.
“Of course then the response has to be given on the pitch to help everyone around to flower and bloom.”
There was a curious incident last week when former Chelsea legend Zola was not allowed on to the turf at Stamford Bridge by a steward.
Rio Ferdinand, who was also there as a pundit, hit back by telling the steward: ‘He owns this pitch!’
“It’s true they didn’t want to let me in, maybe they hadn’t seen me properly. But now the steward has changed jobs!” laughed Zola.
“It was a nice thing really, Rio was ready with the joke.”
Now there is another Italian at Chelsea, specifically Coach Antonio Conte, who sits on top of the Premier League table.
“Antonio is appreciated by everyone, including public opinion, fans and other Coaches. Antonio deserves it, because he is someone who works really hard.
“I am pleased to see the renewal of this bond between Chelsea and Italy, which works and brings good results.”