Inter President Beppe Marotta has responded to a remark made by Milan owner Gerry Cardinale. Marotta expressed his hope that AC Milan will one day return to the top and “go on the journey we’ve been on over the last six years.”
Marotta on Inter’s Domestic Double and Response to Cardinale
Inter is celebrating their final home match of the season, where they will be presented with the Serie A trophy. This will be followed by a victory parade through the city to commemorate their Serie A and Coppa Italia double.
Speaking before Inter’s match against Hellas Verona, Marotta shared his excitement: “I feel a lot of excitement and happiness in moments like these, also for the 80,000 fans who are here to celebrate this extraordinary team led by an equally extraordinary coach.”
He added, “The easiest thing was knowing that we had a group of serious professionals who would respond to our goals this year. The bravest and most difficult thing was the choice of the coach. I believe that a club has to have the courage to make these sorts of decisions without fear. We’ve made people aware of who Chivu is.”
Marotta was also asked about Gerry Cardinale’s recent comments to La Gazzetta dello Sport, where he seemingly criticized Italian football: “You see, this (problem with Italian football) isn’t just about Serie A. It’s about not showing up to Champions League Finals and losing 5-0; it’s about competing seriously in Europe.”
In response, Marotta stated: “So, I have two answers up my sleeve: One ironic and one serious.”
“Today isn’t the time to argue, I hope that one day he will return to the top of Milano and go on the journey we’ve been on over the last six years. Nine titles, two Champions League finals and a Europa League final. I think it’s a prosperous path that won’t be forgotten. I’ll keep the ironic response for another day.”
Marotta also confirmed that he and coach Cristian Chivu will meet soon to discuss a contract extension, calling it a “formality.” He emphasized, “Chivu is the present and the future of Inter. I’ve said it many times. He’s a very good coach and Inter have to stay close to him.”
