Italian journalist Ivan Zazzaroni has sought to defend himself against critics following claims that Inter face an uncertain financial future, whilst attempting to clarify that he expected them to pay outstanding debts.
The editor of Corriere dello Sport appeared on Italian radio station Radio Deejay earlier today to address mounting criticism of him on social media following claims in the newspaper yesterday that Inter’s financial situation was particularly bleak and star players may need to be sold.
Zazzaroni also insisted that he had never claimed that Inter would not pay off outstanding transfer fee debts before 31 March, which would bring potential sanctions from UEFA, including the rejection of a licence to compete in European competition next season.
“Was I waiting for [CEO Beppe] Marotta on 31 March? Of course I expected him to pay. I never said he would not pay because if he didn’t they wouldn’t receive a licence.
“I broke the news that Suning had put Inter up for sale and then cyclically, and through articles, we explained that the problems were with Suning and not Inter, who will win the Scudetto.
“When the situation with Real Madrid over [Achraf] Hakimi happened (deferral of payment of an instalment on the transfer), we published it. Marotta said they would pay by 31 March, I said wait.
“They paid that installment, as well as other transfer fees, such as of [Romelu] Lukaku to Manchester United from May.
“They are not wishes or made up, you must use your brain. All are certified news stories and have never been denied.
“I congratulate Conte and the team, but I am petrified about what is happening to the club,” Zazzaroni concluded.
Inter currently sit top of the Serie A table as they challenge for a first Scudetto since 2010, whilst owners Suning look to bring in investment to manage mounting debts at the club.
