Inter manager Antonio Conte has shared his belief that he and the team have prepared themselves as best they can for the Champions League group stage clash against Real Madrid this evening.
“They are used to the Champions League finals, given what they have done in recent years and in history in general,” he explained in an interview with Italian broadcaster Sport Mediaset, which was aired late last night.
“It is an important match, we have prepared ourselves in the best possible way to face a team with great tradition in this tournament. We will try to give our best.”
Next the former Juventus and Italian national team boss was asked about how big an impact Romelu Lukaku’s absence will have.
“It is useless to talk about the absentees, let’s focus on who is here to try to do our best.”
The 51-year-old was then asked whether the past few weeks have been his most difficult as Inter manager given all of the Nerazzurri’s COVID-19 positives and injuries as well which has left the squad rather depleted at times.
“We have to be ready to take on any situation, after the international break we had some time which is useless ro linger on about.
“We’re taking everything on with our heads held up high, looking to do our best in a very difficult period, everyone is giving everything they have.”
In conclusion he was asked for his memories of Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane, who he played alongside at Juventus, as a footballer.
“I have fond memories, I’m very nostalgic because we are talking about many years ago. To have Zizou in the squad was an absolute pleasure, he was a fantastic player.
“He was a genius but he was ready to suffer and believe me at Juventus under Lippi you suffered.”
