Inter chief executive Giuseppe ‘Beppe’ Marotta has confirmed that Inter will sign Alexis Sanchez on a permanent basis but started an interview with Italian broadcaster Sky Sport Italia by speaking about the end of the Serie A campaign and resumption of the Europa League.
“A very important chapter ended on Saturday, that of the Serie A season, an anomalous one that was difficult for everyone,” he explained in the interview which took place a short while before the game kicked-off at the Arena Auf’Schalke.
“Now a new chapter opens, the Europa League, and we enter it with the same spirit as every other competition, which is to honour the jersey, try to get as far as possible and try to respect the guidelines given by the owners while respecting the prestige of this club.”
The former Juventus executive then went on to speak about the relationship with manager Antonio Conte following his public outburst after Inter’s 2-0 win over Atalanta at the weekend.
“We are all focused on this important evening. Conte yesterday issued a very explicit and clear statement. Let’s stick to what he said. These dynamics are part of the game, we live with this way.
“There is no stance on our part. All members of the company aim to achieve common goals, achieve satisfaction and give them to fans. The preparation for the game was the best.”
He was then asked about what discussions have been had behind the scenes following the outburst and he admitted that the team cannot ever be satisfied and must always aim higher.
“As I’ve said, I honestly just want to focus on this evening. In a larger analysis of a growth process and plan for a new era, with Steven Zhang taking over as President only last year too, these dynamics happen. There are also some objective results that show how we’ve developed.
“We are happy, but want to keep going, improving and reaching even higher objectives. I heard when we stepped into the stadium tonight that we are the vice-champions of Italy, and that really did take me by surprise, but that is what we are and we want to do even better next year.”
In conclusion Marotta was asked about reports in the media that have stated Inter are on the verge of finalising a deal to sign Alexis Sanchez on a permanent basis.
“Unofficially, we’ll make it official tomorrow morning, the player is entirely owned by Inter. We have a contract with him for three seasons. We believe in him, that he can be a strong part of this squad and are happy to have concluded this deal.”
