Inter’s legendary former goalkeeper Julio Cesar believes the Nerazzurri can strengthen their chances of winning the Serie A title if they get the better of city rivals AC Milan in this evening’s Coppa Italia quarter-final at San Siro.
In an interview with Gazzetta dello Sport, which appeared in today’s print edition, Cesar shared his thoughts on what a win tonight could mean for Inter’s season.
“The derby is always the derby,” the Brazilian remarked.
“In the league, AC Milan are ahead and Inter are pursuing them and winning in the cup could mean sending a message in terms of the Scudetto.
“AC Milan comes into this match off the back of a defeat and that can have an impact on morale.
“Inter could take advantage of it but there is Ibrahimovic who is doing extraordinary things, he deserves everything, he is an example for young people.”
Cesar was then asked what this Inter must do in order to win titles like his treble-winning team did.
“It is difficult to make comparisons.
“Massimo Moratti was very good at building the team year after year, one piece at a time up to the treble win.
“Today, with all the changes that have taken place, it is difficult to replicate that era.
“Inter have excellent players and a great coach.
“The path they are on is the right one and they must continue to believe in the project.
“Everyone must row in the same direction, one step at a time.”
The former Queens Park Rangers shot-stopper then gave his thoughts on current coach Conte.
“He is very well prepared.
“He pushes his players a lot, he is very demanding and he transmits passion.
“He is doing a great job.”
Cesar proceeded to discuss his successor at Inter, Samir Handanovic, who has come in for a lot of criticism for his performances this season.
“The role of the goalkeeper is delicate.
“I too have been criticised because when you show that you are among the best, everyone always expects the best.
“Samir is still a great goalkeeper, very serious and professional.”
In conclusion, the former Brazilian national team player was asked who could be the next him at Inter and he pointed out two young goalkeepers currently on Inter’s books.
“Everyone talks to me very well about Filip Stankovic, who unfortunately I haven’t had the pleasure of seeing live yet but if at his age he is already on the bench in the Champions League, it means that he has something special.
“Inter already has the new Julio Cesar and it’s Gabriel Brazao.
“He has the potential to become the strongest in the world.”
