It was not only Inter President Steven Zhang who chose to say a couple of words last night, also Inter coach Luciano Spalletti issued a brief statement during his Christmas toast when the team and club was gathered for the annual Christmas dinner.

At Inter’s Christmas dinner last night, Inter manager Luciano Spalletti made a toast on the stage. His speech was above all centred around the regret for how the European adventure in the Champions League ended.

“Unfortunately, I could not bring you the gift that was closest to our heart: the last 16 in the Champions League. I am sorry to stand here without having achieved this goal, the guys deserved to qualify. A message for the fans? Let us defend Inter together,” the Tuscan said to the many in attendance.