Inter coach Antonio Conte discussed the Nerazzurri’s clinical 4-0 win in the Serie A over Genoa in an interview with Italian broadcaster Sky Sports Italia immediately after the game.
“We didn’t have to wait for today to say that the team has grown in every aspect. The problems today were more accentuated, but they have been there for some time.”
“However, throughout this difficult period everyone has taken responsibility, even those who have played very little. And this shows that we must always believe and rely on work.”
“If today we are on 42 points, we have to say thanks to the work we are doing and I say thanks to the professionalism of these guys who have made themselves totally available, with a desire to grow.”
Conte touched on the hard work by his players, especially those with slight physical injuries.
“Today was a very good game from every point of view, despite the injuries and those who made themselves available even if not they were not 100%, like Gagliardini. Vecino also had a calf strain, as did Borja Valero. But they are players who put the team before themselves.”
He spoke about whether he’s written a list of players he would like the club to sign.
“I wouldn’t feel like writing any letters today. I’d be disrespecting an extraordinary group of guys, who are giving me everything. It’s getting hard. Let’s look at Esposito, who’s 17. We’ve grown so much. Now we must continue to amaze.”
The 50-year-old Italian discussed the growth of 17-year-old Italian forward Sebastiano Esposito.
“From this past summer, when he looked just like a child, he has grwn up so much. And I told him after Sanchez’s injury that I wouldn’t be afraid to start him.”
“He’s a smart kid with a big future ahead of him. Then there’ll be a big family to help, and I’ll help them. I’m happy for him and for all the kids. Today it wasn’t easy, we made it easy.”
He thought that the squad must remain alert at all times.
“Yes, and they know it very well. They’ve deserved eight days off. We’ll meet again next Sunday. And I’m calm because they’re responsible.”
“We absolutely must not give up. Even on vacation, there’ll be a part dedicated to me. They know that.”
Finally, Conte touched on the fact that Inter are top of the league table at the end of the calendar year, the same as his first seasons with both Juventus and Chelsea.
“And it’s always been surprising, from my first year at Juve to the first place with Chelsea. Now we’ve got a long way to go. I repeat, they’re a growing group. We, Lazio, Roma and even Napoli, although further away, have to make the league more exciting.”
“We have to believe and think about ourselves, 42 points, honestly, it’s a nice Christmas. I’m happy for everyone. But I remember that it’s already happened at Inter to be in the lead in December and then arrive in the last Champions League spot on the last day. It’s a difficult but also stimulating path for everyone.”
