Inter CEO Beppe Marotta discussed the Nerazzurri’s season so far, the upcoming January transfer window, striker Romelu Lukaku and the upcoming international break in an interview with Italian broadcaster Sky Sports Italia, ahead of Inter’s clash against Parma.

“I’d say that last year ended an unusual season and started an even more unusual one.

“It is not an excuse but a fact. Since August we have already played many games, to which have been added the Covid positive cases, injuries, national team games.

“Coaches are never able to make the teams in advance. It is a situation that we must try to limit, otherwise it is difficult to manage the teams from now until the end of the season.”

The former Juventus executive then touched on whether Belgian striker Romelu Lukaku will recover in time for the Champions League clash against Real Madrid.

“We must rely on the indications of the medical staff. Everyone wants to recover as quickly as possible to avoid relapses.”

He did not give any indications as to the team’s plans in the upcoming January transfer window.

“We are happy with this squad, Ausilio’s work is excellent. The coach is doing his best, we are all trying to enhance the resources we have, which are the result of a discomfort created by Covid.

“It is impossible to hypothesize what will happen in January.”

Marotta touched on the upcoming international break and whether the Nerazzurri would be sending players to their respective teams.

“Surely it is a situation that we will face with a clear head. We must respond to the many official commitments that we have and I think it is right that the Federations also come to us. Caution must be exercised.

“It is a discontent that is spreading in various clubs. We are faced with an unusual situation, we already have a great impediment that is Covid, it is in the common sense of all.”

Finally, Marotta suggested that the national teams need to take into account the conditions and health of their players, as well as respecting their clubs.

“We are talking generally. I don’t want to boycott the Nations League, I’d say that a player must be in a psycho-physical condition to respond to the national team games.

“When you send a player, if he is already fatigued, it is obvious that he should stay at home for the good of all. I ask that there be more respect for the clubs.”

Inter are currently fifth in the league table after five games, sitting three points behind rivals and league leaders AC Milan. Their opponents, Parma, sit 16th in the table currently.