Dutch outlet De Telegraaf have published the second part of their extensive interview with Inter vice-president Javier Zanetti. In this part of the interview, Zanetti spoke on his early career as a player among other topics.
“Before going to the Talleres, Independiante released me as they said I wasn’t fit enough for professional football. The support of my family was essential and they encouraged me to continue to chase my dream and not give up. From that point on I based my life on hard work, something which I have been following for almost thirty years now. I play with Inter Forever along with many great names from the Nerazzurri’s past. In this way, I not only keep in touch with my old teammates, but it is also a perfect way to keep myself fit.
“I owe everything to this club, I arrived here in 1995 when I was 22, and I could never have imagined being here 23 years later. Inter means family for me and I can not describe it in a better way. I want to be part of the club forever.”
Zanetti then recalled captaining Inter to the triplete in the 2009/10 season.
“It was an exceptional year and of course I hope it can be repeated, but it is easier said than done. What Inter did at that moment is still unique in Italian football. I know how long and difficult it is to get that phenomenal level of success but I also realise how difficult it is to match it. We are a very ambitious club but it would be unfair to consider that team as a point of reference for the current team.”
Zanetti then spoke on the importance of Suning being Inter’s owners.
“Our new owners have increased the level of our ambition. That’s why it’s very important that Inter are back in the Champions League. This in itself is already positive, but this season must be better than the previous one. In reality we are in a process that we must carry forward.
Zanetti concluded the interview by speaking on Dutch football and Stefan de Vrij.
“We closely follow Dutch football. Although the National team was absent at the last World Cup, the level has improved. Then here at Inter we have a fantastic Dutch player in Stefan de Vrij.”