Legendary Inter defender Giuseppe ‘Beppe’ Bergomi has spoken with Italian broadcaster Sky Sport Italia this afternoon on a range of topics and started by discussing the game and manager which he remembers most from his playing career, which he spent entirely at Inter.
“I remember one match above the rest, the won against Aston Villa in the UEFA Cup. We won 3-0 in the second leg after losing 2-0 in the first leg,” he began the interview.
“As for the manager I remember most, every manager gave me something but if I have to name just one, I will say Giovanni Trapattoni.”
He was then asked how long it took for him to notice that Javier Zanetti, who would go on to succeed him as captain upon his retirement, would turn into a top player.
“I was the first to welcome him and Sebastian Rambert. I still remember our first training session and you could not take the ball off of Zanetti. I understood then that someone in the team would be on the bench in place of him. He could play in defence and midfield and was a leader.”
Next he was asked what he thinks sets Inter apart from the rest of clubs in the world of football.
“Being an Inter player means a lot. Each team has its own DNA and their own values. Those of Inter are completely different.
“Wearing the captain’s armband meant being an example, transmitting values and a sense of belonging. The fans know what the player gives and they want to player to really sweat. The values of Inter are different and a bit particular, the DNA of Inter is unique.”
Bergomi proceeded to discuss one of Inter’s January transfer window acquisitions, Christian Eriksen, a player who has so far struggled to live up to expectations.
“I had identified some of his critical issues and Capello has said it too, despite being good on the ball, he does not like physical contact. When you are playing in the area of the field that he is you have to know how to intercept the ball. He knows how to deliver the ball and he is a good shooter, they are his best qualities.”
In conclusion Bergomi was asked if Il Fenomeno Ronaldo was the best teammate he ever played alongside.
“No. I would put Lothar Matthaus ahead of him. He was an absolute winner. I never seen anyone do what I saw Ronie do but in terms of completeness, Lothar was the greatest.”
In his 20 year career with Inter Bergomi made no less than 754 appearances across all competitions and he was the all-time record appearance holder for the club until Javier Zanetti surpassed him in 2011.