Inter Milan`s vice-president Javier Zanetti has called on the club to use last season`s devastating 5-0 Champions League final loss to PSG as motivation for their upcoming European campaign. Speaking after the group stage draw, the Argentine emphasized the importance of looking ahead under new head coach Cristian Chivu.
The Nerazzurri have been drawn against Liverpool, Arsenal, Slavia Prague, and Kairat Almaty for their home matches, while they will travel to face Dortmund, Atlético Madrid, Ajax, and Union SG.
Zanetti Reflects on Previous Season`s Disappointment
Zanetti acknowledged the bitter disappointment of the heavy defeat to PSG in the final but believes the experience should serve as a catalyst for future success. “We begin again with great enthusiasm, under a new head coach and embarking on a new journey,” he told Sky Sport. “Reaching the final was a significant achievement, despite the unfortunate ending. Football teaches us that there are always new goals to pursue. This is a fresh season in a competition we cherish, and we will strive to honor it as we always have, aiming to progress as far as possible.”
The former Inter captain emphasized that the Champions League remains a key objective for Inter, who are determined to prove they belong among Europe`s elite despite last season`s setback.
Zanetti Expresses Confidence in Chivu
Zanetti`s comments focused heavily on Chivu, his former teammate and now Inter`s new head coach. He revealed that he had long anticipated Chivu`s transition into coaching.
“I always believed Cristian would become a head coach,” Zanetti stated. “He was an exceptional teammate both on and off the pitch, and his intelligence clearly indicated he was destined for this role. Now he has this great opportunity, and it`s our responsibility to support him and provide everything he needs for a successful season in both domestic and European competitions.”
Zanetti also mentioned another ex-teammate, Esteban Cambiasso, as someone he hopes will follow a similar path in the future. For now, however, his primary focus is on helping Chivu acclimate to his new position in the San Siro dugout.