Inter coach Antonio Conte spoke to gathered reporters in a press conference earlier today, after the Nerazzurri’s impressive 3-1 win over Cagliari. His words were noted by Italian media outlet FcInterNews.
First, he commented on the match.
“It must be said, first of all, that Cragno was by far the best today. We certainly had a great first half, creating a lot. Between our inaccuracies and an excellent Cragno, we were not able to score and at the same time, at the first chance they scored.
“Sottil’s goal was really beautiful, it could have brought anxiety to this type of situation, but the guys did well to stay on the ball, staying in the game and turning it around.”
The 51-year-old Italian coach touched on how this was the Milanese club’s fourth league win in a row.
“We’ve won four times in a row in the league so far, and this is not related to the elimination from the Champions League, the performances in the league were there before and are there now.
“We must proceed one step at a time, talking little and staying focused.”
The former Juventus and Chelsea coach spoke about the physical condition of Italian midfielder Stefano Sensi and if he can become a starting player again.
“It depends on him. After he fully recovers his physical condition after the last year he has had. The Sensi I know is currently far from what I want, but I repeat, he’s coming from a difficult year.
“We have to cross our fingers and look for consistency and optimal condition. I want to see again the player I saw at the beginning of last season.”
He did not think that club captain Samir Handanovic could have done more to stop the Rossoblu’s goal in the game.
“All I know is that Sottil scored a wonder goal from Cagliari’s first chance of the game. A magnificent volley, congratulations to him, he is an interesting player and a top prospect.”
Finally, Conte spoke about the performance of 23-year-old Italian midfielder Nicolo Barella, who scored in the win.
“Two years ago, Nicolò was here at Cagliari, this is his second year with us. He is growing and working, he is a guy who can and must continue to grow.
“He must be good at channeling his great energy in the right way, he often tends to overdo it and sometimes runs into mistakes. He is an excellent prospect and can become great, both for Inter and for the national team.”
The Nerazzurri’s key 3-1 win against the Rossoblu earlier today was needed as the squad had to show a strong response after their incredibly disappointing early exit from the Champions League earlier this week, after their 0-0 draw with Shakhtar Donetsk.
