Striker Marko Arnautovic feels that Inter Milan are the club of his heart.

Speaking in the official matchday programme for this evening’s Serie A clash with Hellas Verona, the veteran Austrian international opened up on what playing for the Nerazzurri means to him.

Arnautovic has had something of a long and winding adventure with Inter.

The Austrian first joined the Nerazzurri on loan during the 2009-10 season. That was the season that Inter won the European Treble.

But Arnautovic was just a bit part player at that time.

Therefore, the young striker did not return to Inter for another season after that.

Instead, Arnautovic played for clubs like Werder Bremen, Stoke City, and West Ham United.

In the summer of 2021, Arnautovic came back to Serie A. He signed for Bologna, becoming a key man for the Rossoblu across two seasons.

And then this past summer, the 34-year-old returned to Inter.

Having grown and changed a lot in more than a decade away, Arnautovic is back where he feels that he belongs.

Marko Arnautovic: Inter Is In My Heart

Arnautovic reflected that “My debut in this shirt remains a special day for me.”

“Although equally significant was the match against Siena,” he continued. “Which marked my first time playing in front of the incredible Nerazzurri crowd at the San Siro.”

“Inter is in my heart,” he said,

The 34-year-old noted that “I had the chance to experience something beautiful here.”

“In my first experience here, there were players who gave me advice and helped me grow.”

“They always made me feel part of the team,” Arnautovic explained.

“Like today, the group is the fundamental thing for me. Staying united even when things get tough makes the difference.”

Recalling his second Inter debut at the start of this season, Arnautovic said that “Providing that assist to Lautaro in front of the fans at the San Siro after my return was beautiful.”

“As was the embrace from my teammates in the last few matches.”

“I have always lived for football,” the Austrian said. “in football, if I have to think of an idol, the first name that comes to mind is Il Fenomeno, Ronaldo. An incredible player.”

The 34-year-old said that “For me, the thing that matters most is passion.”

“Without that, it’s difficult to get on the pitch and give your best.”

And as for the best memory of career, Arnautovic said that “There are quite a few in Nerazzurri.”

“And then, there’s the decisive brace for Stoke City against Manchester City. That’s a good memory.”