Former Inter and Fiorentina goalkeeper Francesco Toldo discussed this evening’s league clash between the two sides, coach Antonio Conte and the Zhang family in an interview in today’s paper edition of the Milano based newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport.
First, he touched on the pressures of tonight’s game for the Nerazzurri.
“The public can’t wait to win. There is a little bit of pressure. The team is strong, they will be able to play on equal terms with Juve.
“The difference will be the humility of each player, but this Inter gives me hope. I think of Lautaro, but especially Lukaku.”
The 48-year-old Italian former shot stopper commented on Inter coach Antonio Conte and how the 51-year-old Italian’s position at the club was confirmed in a meeting last month.
“If he stayed, it means that there is total agreement. Conte has a winning mentality and is never satisfied. That said, when you get to Inter it’s never easy. Not even for a top guy like him, perfect for the environment.”
He spoke highly of the Nerazzurri’s owners, the Zhang family. The club president is the 28-year-old Steven Zhang.
“They are incredibly hungry. They probably don’t have Moratti’s enthusiasm, unmatched, but they are motivated. They are doing things the right way, they have intelligence and the economic capability.”
The former Nerazzurri and Viola goalkeeper discussed how the club’s owners will help the team return to the top of European football.
“In a few years Inter will be at the level of PSG, City and Real Madrid. Suning will raise the level of the club.
“Steven is intelligent, he has understood the value and the weigh” of tradition. As an Inter fan, I would tell him to trust his instincts too.”
Finally, Toldo spoke very highly of club captain Samir Handanovic.
“A real shame that Samir has not won trophies yet with Inter. It was not up to him, exemplary professional and ideal captain. Technically, he has remained with the best.”
Inter will face Fiorentina in their season opener in Milan this evening, with coach Antonio Conte likely to deploy the team in a 3-4-1-2 formation, starting Danish midfielder Christian Eriksen.
