Nicolas Burdisso believes Inter are on the verge of starting ‘a winning cycle’ under Antonio Conte.
The Nerazzurri are 11 games away from securing a first Serie A title since 2010, boasting a six-point lead (and a game in hand) over AC Milan in second.
Burdisso spent six years at Inter when the club was last at the peak of its powers, and the former defender is confident the glory days are on their way back to San Siro.
“I’d like to think they’re beginning a winning cycle which can continue for some time,” he told Gazzetta dello Sport on Monday.
“The fans are hugely passionate at Inter, the players are strong and so is their mentality.
“The same goes for the coach.
“Inter have all the ingredients to start a beautiful journey, and if they succeeded it could be an example for other teams, which would benefit all of Serie A.”
Conte has taken Inter clear of AC Milan and Juventus at the top of the table despite a backdrop of huge uncertainty regarding the club’s ownership situation.
Suning are thought to be seeking a €250 million financing deal from US group Fortress, but a report in this morning’s papers said they would need to find a financial partner (such as BC Partners or Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund) to keep hold of the club.
Asked about Inter’s corporate issues, Burdisso said: “I’m not talking just about Inter, I’d extend the debate for other clubs: they need people like Massimo Moratti.
“I think it’s his profile which is missing.
“Football is changing, the philosophy of work is different and people are seeking investment with other paths: you need to adapt.
“In any case, and this is for certain, the off-field changes have an impact on performances on the pitch.”
Burdisso praised Conte in this sense for having ensured Inter’s league form was not hampered by Suning’s troubles.
“Managing a group is one of his greatest strengths,” the Argentine argued.
“If there’s a problem, Conte turns it into motivation, exactly like Jose Mourinho used to do: they’re similar in this regard.
“I hope Conte can do well at Inter for many years to come.”