He’s always standing by Inter. Through good times and bad, through wins or losses. And when times are tough is when even more support is needed. In an exclusive interview with Sky Sport Italia, conducted by Andrea Paventi, Javier Zanetti tried to explain what happened in last weekend’s game against AC Milan, as well as how he’s preparing for the next league clash against Lazio.
The derby could have provided the team with even more certainty in securing a Europa League spot. But inside the dressing room did it leave anything more than a bitter taste in your mouths?
“Unfortunately it left the bitterness that comes with a defeat and not having played well. But now we have to think about the games we have left.”
You’ve faced so many different moments in Inter’s history. How would you describe this one?
“I believe it’s somewhat difficult, but what matters most is how you face things. I think the fact that it still all depends on us is crucial, and we’ll do everything we can to win against Lazio and Chievo.”
At this point you can almost talk as a director would, but can we say – to avoid all misunderstanding – that this game did not create any rifts within the team? Can you say this team is still moving in the same direction?
“Yes, I believe that over the course of a season you can run into difficult moments, but what matters is that the group knows how to react. We have the chance to show that on Saturday evening.”
What did Walter Mazzarri tell you all?
“He was disappointed, as we all were, to have lost a game like the derby that means so much to us. But I repeat: there’s no time for complaining now. We have to prepare right away for the two games we have left, which are crucial.”
Were you expecting an easier season, at least regarding the Europa League objective?
“It was normal. I think you can run into problems but, again, what matters is how you face them, and I believe this group will show they know how to react to these things.”
Are you excited when thinking about Saturday evening?
“Yes, I’m sure I’ll feel very emotional inside. But at the same time I think the most important thing is the team’s goal of winning the match and qualifying for the Europa League.”
So the most important thing is that the team does well?
“I hope it can be a big celebration, but first we have to win. Afterwards I’m sure I’ll be very emotional when the moment comes to salute all my fans.”
Will you play against Lazio? Is it something you’ve discussed with Mazzarri?
“These are decisions that the coach makes. He knows I’m available when he needs me.”
With the experience you’ve gained has the thought ever occurred to you to become a coach?
“No, honestly not. Maybe further in the future, but I don’t know. I think my career will head in a different direction.”
Have you heard from president Thohir in these days after the derby?
“He always stays close to us. He was with us last week, and he’ll come for this game, which is crucial. I think we all want a good outcome.”
What was the best thing you heard from Erick Thohir when discussing your future?
“The first thing he said to me, and something that made me very happy, is that I was a legend not just for Inter but for the entire world of football. This made me really happy.”
Have you thought about how it would be if you were to play and score against Lazio? Along with the goal against Roma in the Scudetto race, one against the Biancocelesti would be go down as one of your biggest.
“I’ll never forget that moment because it was such a fantastic evening for all of us and for the Inter family. But I’ll say it again: what matters is that the team plays a great game and gets support from our fans, who are sure to want to be there for such an important match.”
The fans are always the ones who suffer and stay by the team’s side. There will be fewer of them on Saturday evening, unfortunately. Do you want to send a message to them?
“I’m sorry there won’t be fans in the Curva Nord, but I think the Inter fans will show their presence as they do so often. I know most of all how they understand when their team is struggling and cheer for them until the end, which will be a victory for everyone.”
Source: inter.it
