Inter Milan CEO Beppe Marotta feels that Nerazzurri captain Samir Handanovic deserves his start against Fiorentina this evening.
Speaking to Italian broadcaster SportMediaset, via FCInterNews, the Nerazzurri CEO also made clear that the team cannot afford to be distracted by the upcoming Champions League final as they face this Coppa Italia clash.
It’s official – Handanovic will start against Fiorentina this evening.
The Slovenian has not been first choice in goal for much of the season. The arrival of Andre Onana last summer has heralded a change between the posts for the Nerazzurri.
However, the captain is still trusted. Handanovic is still a leader behind the scenes, and has still been given a few opportunities to start recently.
Now, the 38-year-old can try to win another trophy as a starter, in what could well be his final start for Inter.
Inter CEO Marotta: Handanovic Deserving Of Start Vs Fiorentina
“I think it’s the right way to culminate a season in which he’s allowed his teammate to become the starter,” Marotta said. “I think he deserves to be the starter.”
As for the recent confirmation that Simone Inzaghi will be kept on as coach next season, Marotta simply made clear that “There’s no reason for the relationship not to continue.”
Of this evening’s match, the CEO said that “Inter has an obligation to play a leading role in every competition.”
“This goal makes everyone, the directors and staff included, proud,” he continued. “We care about this. We want to lift the Coppa by winning against an opponent who’re in good form and deserve respect.”
Marotta stressed that there must be “No mistakes. We need to find determination, and not think about the Champions League final.”
“We have to bring home this first objective. Then we’ll try to finish off the league well, and then we still have a dream that is yet to come true.”
Of defender Matteo Darmian’s impact this season, Marotta said that “He’s Milanese and an Inter fan. He’s born and raised ten km from Pinetina [Inter training centre].”
“He is a perfect example of that kind of footballer who arrives on a free transfer, but always gives a great response.”
“He’s a great professional and a great guy,” Marotta said of Damrian. “I hope he stays with us as long as he’s still able to compete at the highest level.”
