Inter Transfer Market: Marotta Speaks Clearly About Icardi’s Possible Return
Inter President Giuseppe Marotta spoke to Sky Sport ahead of the match against Feyenoord, addressing several topics: the Nerazzurri’s European ambitions, Cristian Chivu’s interaction with the team following the derby, the contract situations of certain players, and transfer strategies.
The Champions League remains the club’s primary goal. “I believe that winning this competition is the goal everyone would like to achieve, and this team hasn’t managed to do so yet, despite victories in major competitions. It’s a competition that pits us against opponents of the highest caliber, and it’s normal for even the smallest mistake to prove fatal. We’ve learned from our experiences—including last year’s—and we hope to reach the top this year,” Marotta stated.
The Nerazzurri’s CEO then commented on the discussion between Chivu and the team following the derby loss, emphasizing the strength of the locker room. “The dialogue between the coach and the team is a daily occurrence, and we’re there every day as well. This is a very healthy group—I use that exact term because there are no bad apples.” Marotta also pointed out a significant statistic: in their last 40 Serie A matches, Inter has lost only three times, all against Milan. “That’s a statistic that should give us pause.”
On the topic of the transfer market and contract renewals, Marotta ruled out any cause for concern regarding expiring contracts, explaining that the only player currently in this situation is Hakan Calhanoglu, with whom the club maintains an excellent relationship. The situation is different for Federico Dimarco, for whom the extension clause through 2028 has already been exercised. “We’ve reached an agreement with him, even though it’s a unilateral clause. We agree that we’ll have the opportunity to extend his contract later this year, because Dimarco has expressed his intention to continue his professional career with Inter, and that’s exactly how we feel as well. A sense of belonging must take precedence over many other considerations.”
Finally, the president clarified the rumors regarding Mauro Icardi and the possible search for a fifth striker. “He certainly hasn’t approached us. He’s a player who has given a lot to Inter, but honestly, he’s not part of our plans—just as signing a new striker isn’t part of our plans.” Marotta pointed out that the Nerazzurri already have four forwards and that the recent simultaneous absences of three players were simply an unfortunate coincidence. There is no emergency, therefore, especially given the team’s offensive statistics: “In Italy, after Roma, we’re the most prolific. In Europe, we’re a bit less so, but that’s also linked to the overall quality of our opponents.” Words of confidence were also expressed for Chivu, described as a modern coach, capable of bringing out the best in all players and building a tactical approach focused on scoring goals.
