Speaking to FcInterNews at an event to celebrate the new partnership between Inter and Mastercard, Javier Zanetti touched on a range of different topics. Not least of these was the collaboration between two famous brands:

“Today is an important day to begin a journey with a brand such as MasterCard. The negotiation lasted a long time, but we soon discovered that we both share the same values. I must thank Carlo Enrico, with whom we immediately agreed.”

The former captain went on to discuss the current leader of the Nerazzurri, Mauro Icardi.

“I am sorry that Mauro will not be going to the World Cup. He has showed that he is good enough to be in the national team.

“The rumours linking him from the club? For a champion at his level, it is normal to have lots of requests. However, Mauro is our captain, striker and reference point for Inter. We are happy to have him here, and he is happy to remain.

“We are not worried by rumours because he has expressed his will to lead the club into the Champions League. Now he can enjoy his vacation, although he did everything possible to be in Russia.”

Moving on to the future of the club, the Vice President discussed the two confirmed signings for next season Lautaro Martinez and Stefan De Vrij.

“Lautaro is a promising young lad who did very well in Argentina, however playing in Italy is not easy. He is only 20 years old, so we will have to wait for him, help him and make him comfortable.

“I’m sure Spalletti will find a way to make him perform at his best. He is very dangerous 1 v 1, he can help the team without the ball and has a great personality.

“As for De Vrij, I think his tears against Inter (following Lazio’s 2-3 loss to the Nerazzurri in which he gave away a penalty) are a part of football. But now he is an Inter player, and we are happy because he is a fantastic defender. He will certainly make a contribution to the side.”

On Inter’s return to the Champions League: “The goal we set at the start of the season was achieved with great win over a strong opponent like Lazio. The guys gave everything on the field, while the coach and his staff have done an amazing job. This is a starting point for the club, and we must continue to improve on the field.”

Finally, Zanetti discussed the transfer market and the potential returns of loanees Rafinha and Joao Cancelo.

“They both had a great time at Inter. Just look at Rafinha’s tears against Sassuolo – he immediately understood what it meant to wear Inter’s shirt. Cancelo also showed his qualities over the whole season.

“For both, the negotiations are difficult and Ausilio is doing a great job. We would be sorry to not see them again in Nerazzurri colours, but we are not panicked as we know there is still time.”