Following Inter’s 1-0 loss to Lazio, Inter manager Luciano Spalletti has labelled the negotiations between the club and Mauro Icardi as ‘humiliating’ while also hitting out at people who have claimed not using Icardi has caused Inter to lose games.
“It is certainly a heavy defeat against a direct rival for position,” he began an interview with Sky Sport Italia post-match.
“We controlled the game for long periods, but were unlucky to waste our chances and then go behind, which allowed Lazio to focus on the defensive approach they wanted even more.
“Lazio pushed forward with their wing-backs and we found ourselves poorly organised. Lazio will always create chances against anyone and they scored at the first attempt.”
He then discussed the ongoing Mauro Icardi saga and his decision to leave him out of the squad for the game.
“I know what my job is. As things stand today, for the way he behaved, he has to stay out and the others have to play. It is clear for everyone to see what happened and how events unfolded.
“I think he could’ve played 20-30 minutes, even half a game, but that’s not the point. Those who are in the locker room need to play. You need to have credibility in a group. I have had credibility for 22 years in my career, I have credibility with my players.
“It’s obvious for everyone to see what happened. It’s obvious.”
He then progressed to speak on the recent negotiations between the club and Icardi with regard to a return.
“These negotiations are humiliating for Inter fans and for those who love Inter. The need to negotiate with someone just to get him to pull on the shirt that they love. It’s humiliating.
“Negotiating with someone just to get him to pull on the Inter shirt. What, do I need to email 20 lawyers and ask them if I can call someone up?
“Icardi needs a game out. If he continues to behave the way he has done recently, then he can start to come back in. People say we lost games without Icardi. Inter didn’t get into the Champions League for years with Icardi. Inter lost worse games than this with Icardi.
“Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo make the difference, not Icardi, with all due respect. Professionalism and self-respect are everything.
“I’ve left players out for far less in my time. You must have respect and behave in the locker room. The Coach must be credible and recognised as someone who will do the right thing.
“Let’s find an Inter fan and ask him – we’d have to go outside for that, mind you! – and ask him if he likes a player negotiating to pull on the Inter shirt.”
