Inter legend Sandro Mazzola discussed the major issues currently plaguing Inter as well as their season so far in an interview with Italian newspaper Libero yesterday.
First, he spoke about if Inter can win this season’s Europa League.
“Of course, sorry. We’re talking about Inter, so yes. It’s always tough at this level. But I think the team’s got a real shot at it, and physically they’re fine.”
The Italian touched on how winning the Europa League is the best way to move past the regrets from this season.
“Strong regrets from this season, they could have done better. But winning the Europa League, as well as winning a trophy, would mean that there is a squad that has been able to react, start again and win.”
Mazzola was a fan of coach Antonio Conte, who has been under fire recently after publicly criticizing the club’s management in the media last month.
“He reminds me of some great Inter coaches. He’s one who, when things don’t go well, takes matters into his own hands, looks the players in the eye and makes them give something back.”
He thought that Conte did the right thing by calling out the issues publicly.
“For me he was right. Because if he doesn’t make those comments, the players will be the first to be criticised. In his own way he’s fighting to change things for the better.”
The Italian spoke about how those who expose their passion are always the most successful at the club.
“It’s the shirt that attracts them. Inter have always needed those who expose themselves personally. Our fans get in tune and often love them. They’re good for the ultras, it’s a story that repeats itself.”
He though that Argentine striker Lautaro Martinez could follow in his footsteps with the Nerazzurri.
“Yes. When I see him on TV playing certain games, I turn to my children and grandchildren and say, I used to do these things too.”
Mazzola was positive about Belgian striker Romelu Lukaku and his debut season in Italy.
“Great, more than just not bad. When you least expect it, he makes the decisive action. And it’s not just strength. If he were just muscles, he’d lose the ball.”
The Inter legend kept up hope that the club could sign Barcelona star Lionel Messi. The player is reportedly unhappy in Catalonia and recently purchased a property in Milan.
“Ahh, don’t mention it. It would be the end of the world, we wouldn’t even have to play, you’d already know the result. I think there’s a 1 in 100 chance of signing him, but let’s keep the hope there.”
He suggested what type of player he thinks Inter should look to sign this summer.
“A general in midfield, a player who looks and understands what he has to do. And I think he’s coming.”
Finally, Mazzola spoke about the club’s new owners, the Suning group, and how they’ve provided stability to the club.
“Yes, the team’s very well set up. They’re giving us back the trust we had in them in the 1970s, when we were the first to go and play in China and get close to their world. They’re understanding our football and they want to learn.”