Materazzi01

Inter legend Marco Materazzi spoke in an exclusive interview made by our partner fcinternews.it about a lot of interesting issues, including the move from Perugia to Inter in the summer of 2001, the move to Villareal in the season 2005/06 that came close to being done, opponents and teammates. Inter’s former number 23 avoided, however, to talk about the rumors that he may be about to return to Inter.

Marco, let’s start with your farewell from Perugia. Who were the first people who informed you that you would be playing for Inter the following season?

“I was informed directly by Oriali and Facchetti, they were the first people that revealed my move to Inter. It still remained a lot to the end of the league (2000/01 Ed. ) But back in January, I knew that I would wear Inter’s shirt next season.”

In Milan you have experienced unforgettable moments, won many titles in Italy, Europe and the World. Was there a time when you, on the other hand, were close to saying farewell to Inter?

“Yes, during the 2005/06 season, the year leading up to the World Cup in Germany.”

Can you tell us some details? Was there any truth to the speculation about Bologna?

“No, with Bologna there was nothing concrete. I was close to Villareal, but luckily I stayed and we all know how that season ended.”

What happened with the Spaniards?

“It was Marco Branca who conducted the negotiations himself. Everything was happening without my consent because it definitely wasn’t my intention to leave Inter. During the training camp before the World Cup, I was practically sold to Villareal, but after the victory in Berlin, I was immediately indispensable.”

How did the story end?

“The decision to stay was ultimately made partly by me and partly by the club. I spoke with Moratti and in the end we decided to continue together. We can say that when you become world champion, it was easier for the club to keep me.”

We move on to the teammates you had during your 10 seasons at Inter. Can you give us your personal top three of the best players?

“I would like to mention five. I say Eto’o, Ronaldo, Figo, Stankovic and Chivu.”

The three strongest opponents you’ve met?

“In the first place I would put Julio Ricardo Cruz, Gabriel Omar Batistuta would be second, while Francesco Totti is third.”

During your career, you have played games that have defined both Inter’s as well the Italian national team’s history. As for games you want to forget, is there anyone that you particularly would like to play again, aside from the infamous game May 5, 2002?

“I’m reminded of the semi-final against AC Milan in the Champions League in 2003, when we were eliminated after two drawn games.”

Aside from the final in Madrid, is there instead a match you’re particularly fond of?

“Undoubtedly the Scudetto match against Siena on April 22, 2007, when I scored two goals.”

Source: fcinternews.it