Marseille manager Roberto De Zerbi has dismissed reports linking him to Inter Milan during the summer transfer window.
During his recent interview with Sportitalia via FCInter1908, De Zerbi confirmed there were no discussions with the Serie A club.
Roberto De Zerbi emerged as a potential replacement for Simone Inzaghi in June.
With the 49-year-old swapping San Siro for Al-Hilal, Inter had to react quickly.
Indeed, with the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup around the corner, time was a factor.
Meanwhile, Inter had tried to sign Cesc Fabregas, but the Spaniard decided to stay at Como.
De Zerbi was also in the mix, only for Beppe Marotta to choose Cristian Chivu in the end.
However, the former Sassuolo coach insists that he never had any contact with the Nerazzurri.
Despite reiterating his ambition to return to Serie A, he played down speculation linking him with Inter.
Marseille Coach Roberto De Zerbi Quashes Inter Milan Speculation
De Zerbi graduated from AC Milan’s youth academy, but he never made a senior appearance for the Rossoneri.
However, he remains loyal to Inter’s fiercest rivals.
Asked whether he was in touch with Inter during the summer, De Zerbi replied: “No. Never? No contact at all in the summer, zero.
“I would like to return to Italy. Milan was my footballing ‘mother,’ I’m very attached to the old club, Galliani and Braida, and everyone who helped me.
“I always have a special fondness, a sense of gratitude.
“But I don’t need to close any circle, and my career has moved forward without them.”
De Zerbi launched Luis Henrique to stardom in Ligue 1, yet the Brazilian has flopped in Serie A.
Still, the 46-year-old believes Henrique only needs to regain confidence after a disappointing start.
“I’ll tell you that Luis Henrique needs confidence,” De Zerbi said. “He has important qualities and must show them in a big setting.”
He’s a Milan fan, and wants that job in the future… plus I’m more than happy with Chivu… thanks, but no thanks!
Would love to see him manage Inter. His style of football is exactly what we need.