In an interview with Gazzetta dello Sport, former Inter captain Giuseppe ‘Beppe’ Bergomi has backed Inter management in their decision to remove Mauro Icardi as the club captain on Wednesday.

“Being captain doesn’t mean just entering the field first and exchanging pennants. Rather, it means setting an example every day on and off the field, paying attention to the little things that end up making a difference.

“It means showing your face when things are going well and at moments of difficulty. It was a very strong gesture by Inter, but I agreed with Spalletti’s words. It’s difficult to make decisions like these, but it was necessary to put out a signal and protect the team and club.

“In short, it’s like a father who has to punish a child. He does it for their own good, to make them understand that they’re in the wrong and help him grow.

“Inter have often been accused of being too nice, but this time they’ve made a brave decision, making everyone understand that the good of the club and team comes before anything else. And that’s right.”

He concluded by calling for Icarid to apologise to his teammates.

“Being wrong is human, but you have to be able to show your face and apologise. It’s not easy to face a dressing room, but that’s what Mauro has to do. Once the squad clear the air with him, they’ll no longer bear a grudge.”