Andrea Ranocchia is convinced Inter’s Europa League heartache helped them become Serie A champions.
The Nerazzurri blew their opposition away in the one-off knockout tournament in Germany last summer, before coming unstuck against Sevilla in the final.
Antonio Conte’s side put their European disappointment behind them this season to clinch the Scudetto in emphatic fashion, and Ranocchia doesn’t think that was a coincidence.
“This group here began a journey two years ago when the coach arrived,” the defender, who has made seven league appearances this season, told Sky Sport Italia (via FcInter1908.it) today.
“Unfortunately we finished second in Serie A and lost a final last season, but within ourselves we realised we could aim for something more.
“We’ve demonstrated that this year.
“There were difficult moments, but we did a good job managing them and we’ve got our reward.”
Inter have finally ended their 10-year drought for a major trophy, having spent years working their way back up to the summit of Italian football.
The Nerazzurri will celebrate the title after Sunday’s final league game against Udinese and the relief around the club is palpable.
“We’re very happy and satisfied,” Ranocchia added.
“We finished our journey in the best manner possible and deserved to become champions.”
Ranocchia is Inter’s longest-serving player and was the only player in the squad when they last won silverware, clinching the Coppa Italia title in 2011.
“Personally, after 10 years of wearing these colours, it’s a huge satisfaction and I’m really happy,” the 33-year-old admitted.
