Former Inter forward Giampaolo Pazzini discussed his playing career, various memories and the current Serie A season in an interview in yesterday’s paper edition of the Milano based newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport.
First, he commented on what grade he would give himself for his career.
“I would say an 8. The season to be remembered remains 2009-10 with Samp. The least rewarding the last year of Milan, 2014-15, I played only a little.
“I’d add the first one in Verona, 2015-16, when we went back up.”
The Italian touched on his favourite moments in his career.
“The Champions League with Fiorentina and Samp. The hat-trick with the Under 21’s at Wembley and the goal against Real Madrid on my debut with Levante”
He revealed the greatest disappointment in his career.
“The missed European Championship in 2012. It was bad because I found out on TV.”
The 36-year-old Italian spoke fondly of the Nerazzurri.
“The strongest team where I played. My teammates were scary machines.”
Pazzini spoke about some of his favourite coaches that he played under during his career.
“Mandorlini gave me my debut. And also, Mazzarri and Delneri. I had a great time with Allegri, the number one. It also went well with Leonardo at Inter and Juric.”
The former Inter and Hellas Verona man commented on his greatest friend and enemy during his career.
“Toni was a teammate, friend and mentor. Enemy, sportingly speaking, Materazzi.
“When you heard him coming it was scary. Mihajlovic as well. Technically I’d say Cassano and Pirlo.”
The 36-year-old Italian touched on how he spent long periods resigned to the bench as more of a backup player.
“It’s true, but I never criticized the tactical choices, but the ways. Stramaccioni for example said to me ‘for me there is Milito up front, you come later’.
“He was honest and I appreciated it. Others played the games.”
Finally, Pazzini commented on whether he thinks this AC Milan team can win the league title this season. The Rossoneri are currently top of the league table.
“On paper I see Juve and Inter as favorites. I’d put Milan as a possible outsider.”