Former Inter president and owner Massimo Moratti has spoken on some reasons why he believes Inter fans have reason to be optimistic about the future.

“It is interesting that this journey taken in Europe came exactly ten years after the triumph in Madrid and I believe that, beyond what will happen against Sevilla, a new path has really begun,” he explained in an interview with Italian newspaper Tuttosport, which appeared in today’s print edition.

“The team was structured, from how they imposed themselves and how they expressed themselves on the pitch. These are all factors that lead us to be very optimistic. Now there is the awareness of having the skills and qualities necessary to compete in the league. This is the most important thing.”

Moratti proceeded to discuss the similarities between treble winning manager Jose Mourinho and current Inter boss Antonio Conte.

“What strikes me most is the great attention that they both put into it and the fact that they always and only think about football. These are conditions that make Mourinho and Conte complete professionals in the work they do.

“They are both obsessed with winning. They know they have to aim for that and their attitude is the driving force for the whole club.”

Moratti then spoke on Conte’s recent outburst which has put his future as the Nerazzurri manager up in the air and whether Inter should carry on with Conte at the helm or not.

“Conte’s outburst in Bergamo? You have to know people directly and you have to work with them. Then, depending on the relationship you have with a coach, you can put up with something like that or not.

“Conte, beyond his way of doing things, seems to me to be a professional of great seriousness. Should Inter go on with Conte? Without a doubt.”

Next Moratti, who owned Inter for close to 20 years, spoke on Inter’s strike force of Romelu Lukaku and Lautaro Martinez, who have combined for 54 goals this season.

“Lukaku was a surprise. Lautaro is a very useful player for the team and I can understand why other clubs want him. The Argentine is truly a player with enormous potential.”

In conclusion Moratti spoke on the possibility of Inter signing Barcelona captain Lionel Messi, someone he has never hidden his liking for.

“Without a doubt I think there are more chances than ever to be able to sign him now. It is equally undoubted that he is an extraordinary player, but we cannot forget that signing him would be a huge sacrifice on the part of the club.

“Before starting a similar negotiation, it is necessary to evaluate if it is necessary to face an economically very demanding path, then we must not be superficial in saying ‘then let’s sign Messi,’ the conditions must be in place to face this wonderful dream.”