Former Inter midfielder Benoit Cauet discussed the current Nerazzurri squad and the transfer market in an interview with Italian media outlet FcInter1908 earlier today.
First, he discussed the possible transfer of Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba to Inter in the summer.
“Conte knows him well, let’s start with that. He grew up and matured at Juventus, he became world champion. He can certainly help Inter, he has all the characteristics, personality and character. Obviously Inter could use someone like him.”
Cauet spoke about the difficulties experienced by former Tottenham midfielder Christian Eriksen, who arrived in Milan in January in a deal worth around €20 million.
“Arriving in January is not easy. He’s got the skills to show, technical skills to win. He was instrumental in qualifying for the Champions League final with Tottenham last year. He needs time. He doesn’t know the language, his teammates. There are many factors to consider. Joining a team that’s already on a path isn’t easy, you have to get into the system. He will bring a lot, he’s an absolute value and there’s no question about that.”
The Frenchman spoke about Inter coach Antonio Conte, who was one of Cauet’s toughest opponents in his playing career.
“We’re talking about a coach who led Juventus to important triumphs, starting a cycle. He’s had experience abroad and won everywhere with his own way of understanding football. If Inter have taken Conte it’s because they’ve seen what he’s done throughout his career.
“As a player I remember him, he was someone who ran a lot and never gave up, who never stopped and who fought until the end. That’s how his teams are. In fact, I have to say that his teams play really well. The club needed a coach like that. The club did well to get him, because he’s a great professional and he’s very hungry. Inter haven’t won for a long time and he wants to win, he’s built a team that plays football well and has fun. He’s found two great strikers.”
Finally, Cauet spoke highly of Inter striker Lautaro Martinez, who has been heavily linked with a move to Barcelona in the summer.
“Congratulations to those who found Lautaro, Ausilio knows how to sign good players. Toro is a genius purchase, today he’s priceless. I absolutely wouldn’t sell him to Barcelona, not even for Griezmann. Maybe for Messi. He’s young, he can still grow more. Griezmann is a world champion, a great player but he’s no stronger than Lautaro. Toro is rising, he looks like Suarez at his age.”
The 22-year-old Lautaro, who is contracted to the Nerazzurri until 2023, has exploded under the guidance of Conte this season. The player has made 31 appearances across all competitions, for a total of 2437 minutes. In that time, he has scored 16 goals and provided four assists, forming a formidable partnership with Belgian forward Romelu Lukaku.
