Inter vice-president Javier Zanetti shared his thoughts on drawing Atletico Madrid in the Champions League: ‘I know very well how Simeone prepares these matches.’ The draw was made earlier today in Nyon with the Nerazzurri set to welcome the La Liga side on 12 February 2024. Speaking to Mediaset, Zanetti explained what he expects from the matches and also offered an update on their transfer market objectives for January:
“Cholo Simeone is a friend of mine and I know very well how he prepares these matches, he has left good memories at Inter. They will be two complicated games, Simeone’s teams don’t give up until the last minute and so will we, I think they will be two good matches. We are a group aware of our strengths, humble at the same time, with clear objectives and the boys prove it every game.
“The confirmation is also in yesterday’s match, it didn’t start well because Lazio put us in difficulty at the beginning but in the end we brought it home. These are signs that make the team grow and give us hope.
Any regrets about not finishing first in the Champions League or did the game against Lazio show that Inzaghi’s management is correct?
“Let’s remember that in front of us we had Real Sociedad who reached the round of 16 with merit. We tried to win but we couldn’t, we came second and we knew that this draw would be complicated. But now we know who we will face and we will prepare as well as ever. I think Simone is doing an extraordinary job, he has great players at his disposal and brings out the best in each of them.
Will a forward arrive in January?
“Right now the only case we have is Cuadrado, who has decided to have surgery. We are evaluating possible opportunities to replace him, he could give us so much. To complete the department for sure we lack a player in that position.”
