It’s been just a couple of days of the new year, but so much happened in Inter’s world to keep us busy and entertained for quite some time. After all, it’s Inter we’re talking about.
1. God(in) what a signing
The first couple of days were quiet and peaceful, before Sky Sport launched a calciomercato bomb: ‘INTER HA PRESO GODIN!’ (Inter got Godin). Here we are speaking about a world-class central defender who has been regularly considered among the world’s best for the last decade. And we got him for free (!) as Atletico Madrid did not satisfy his requirements for a renewal.
So far so good, as it seems that Godin will be replacing Joao Miranda as the club’s third defender. Let’s just hope this free transfer does not entail the selling of Milan Skriniar as an economic sacrifice. However, on this point, Spalletti said that Skriniar must be considered untouchable as no club can permit his true value.
This high-profile transfer was only derided by our opponents on his age. So it’s good to remind everyone that Godin is a year younger than Cristiano Ronaldo, two years younger than Chiellini and five younger than Andrea Barzagli. Enough said.
2. Icardi’s renewal
Hours after the great news of Godin, a different bomb was launched this time from Argentina, destined to Milan. Wanda Nara, wife and agent of Mauro Icardi, unleashed a direct attack to Inter’s management on the lack of progress on contract talks for a renewal. This was accompanied with a threat that Icardi may even not sign the renewal and consequently leave for another European club by triggering his release clause of €110 million.
Soon enough, Inter’s director Marotta tranquillised the supporters saying there’s no room for panic and that Inter are confident of reaching an agreement. It transpires that Inter are willing and have the financial ability to increase the offer to its captain. What truly hurt Inter fans was the way how both Icardi and Wanda Nara acted in this regard.
Let’s not forget that we’re talking about the captain here, who for the past decades was a symbol of undiscussed love and passion towards the black and blue. While I believe a hefty increase in pay is well deserved, the public statements released by Wanda were unprofessional and uncalled for.
3. Benevento: another lesson learned
Finally, after a two-week absence Inter took to the pitch once again, to play against Benevento for the Coppa Italia. With the benefit of hindsight, it is easy to say that it was not a difficult test for Inter, but in reality Inter always struggled against small teams such as Benevento.
Spalletti rightly pointed out the huge embarrassment last year after Inter failed to beat a Serie C side Pordenone in 120 minutes, and called the players to concentrate and focus. They did so and delivered a nice 6-2 win. It was another lesson learned, another step forward.
4. Alibaba
This is still an evolving story by the time of writing, but such a sensational story cannot be left out. If Jack Ma, China’s richest man, is indeed interested in purchasing 31% of Inter’s shares from former president Eric Thohir, it would be one of the best news in the past decade.
If it does not result true, we obviously move on and await who the real purchaser will be. But this speculation underlines one thing: Inter are now an attractive global brand, a success story which is working hard towards glorious times.
James J Piscopo is a journalist based in Malta. At 27 years old, he has been following Inter for more than two decades. He writes a weekly editorial exclusively for SempreInter.com.
