Inter should be rubbing their hands with glee at the progress of their academy star Nikola Iliev, according to the midfielder’s agent.
Iliev, who joined from Bulgarian side Botev Plovdiv last summer, made his first two starts for the Nerazzurri’s Primavera in their recent matches against Lazio and Bologna, helping Armando Madonna’s side to two victories.
The 16-year-old is described as having excellent flair and dribbling ability, with Madonna praising his ‘undisputed qualities’ and selfless attitude last weekend.
Speaking to FCInter1908.it on Thursday, Iliev’s agent Kaloyan Ivanov said: “I think joining Inter was the right choice, despite the huge interest from other top clubs.
“Iliev has settled very quickly here and the club is very happy with him.
“I look forward to a great future together.”
Ivanov was asked if he had been in contact with his client lately and spoke on the youngster’s current state of mind.
“We talked after the match against Lazio,” he revealed.
“Iliev was happy, he knew he had a good match.
“The coach congratulated him and this is the most important thing.
“When the coach is happy with you it means that you played really well.
“Now Nikola is very motivated, confident and focused on the next matches.”
Ivanov was then asked if there has been any discussions regarding next season for Iliev and possible involvement in the first team.
“There is nothing to talk about, Nikola is an Inter player.
“He has already trained three times, together with some teammates from the Primavera, with the first team.
“At Inter there are many professionals who know when it’s the right time for these things.”
Ivanov then went on to speak about what Iliev, who is a central midfielder, is like as a person.
“I know him well and he has great ability to relate to others.
“He gets along very well with everyone.
“He is a very open and cheerful guy.
“Nikola is very happy.”
In conclusion Ivanov was quizzed on whether his client has had any feedback from Inter first team head coach Antonio Conte.
“Of course, but this is a question that concerns him and the head of the youth academy.
“I know they work closely together and this was a very important thing in the decision to come to Inter.”