Former Inter Milan defender Marco Materazzi shared his insights on the current football landscape in a recent interview with Sky Sport. The World Cup winner discussed various topics, from the Scudetto race to Champions League prospects, and even indulged in some nostalgic reflections.
Materazzi expressed confidence in Inter’s domestic dominance, stating, “In Italy, Inter is the strongest team. They have more quality than anyone else.” However, he cautioned against overlooking Napoli, praising their manager and the advantage of not playing in European competitions.
Intriguingly, Materazzi drew a parallel between Atalanta and the legendary Leicester City team, suggesting, “Atalanta could be the wildcard and follow in Leicester’s footsteps.”
Regarding Inter’s Champions League aspirations, Materazzi believes the team has matured significantly. “Inter is ready to win the Champions League,” he declared. “After the final in Istanbul, they are aware they can compete with anyone.”
When asked about current Inter players who could have fit into the treble-winning side of 2010, Materazzi named several: “Calhanoglu, Barella, Bastoni, and Lautaro.” He humorously added, “The only problem with Barella would have been the shirt number (23), but Nicolò is good, he would have left it to me.”
Self-deprecatingly, Materazzi joked about his chances in the current Inter squad: “I wouldn’t have found space, there’s Bastoni.”
The former defender also praised current Inter coach Simone Inzaghi: “His real luck was not going to Salerno and having the opportunity to coach Lazio when Bielsa didn’t go. But he hasn’t stolen anything. He learned from a lost Scudetto and last year he led the team to win the second star in a triumphant manner.”
When questioned about potential involvement in a managerial or executive role at Inter, Materazzi responded, “I have no regrets and I don’t make it an issue. Being an Inter fan is enough for me. I’ve always respected the choices of every director. Although, thinking about it, I would have seen myself more as a coach, working on the field with the youngest players, to transmit Inter’s values.”
