Marotta before Feyenoord: renewals, Icardi and the health status of the group

Speaking to Sky Sport microphones shortly before the match against Feyenoord, Inter president Marotta touched on several topics: from the Champions League to contract renewals, and even the rumors about Icardi.

On the team’s current form and European ambitions, Marotta was direct: “I believe that winning the Champions League is a goal to be achieved by everyone. This group has achieved great results in important competitions — the league title, Coppa Italia, Supercoppa, cup finals — but in this competition, even a small mistake can be fatal. We are learning from last year’s mistakes and trying to reach the top despite a thousand pitfalls.” He then added: “This is a healthy group, there are no bad apples. In the last four Serie A matches, we lost three times, all three against Milan, and this should make us reflect.”

On the subject of contract renewals, the president ruled out any tension: “We experience the same atmosphere as other clubs involved in multiple competitions, there is no anxiety about renewals.” Regarding Calhanoglu, he confirmed a good relationship: “We have an excellent relationship with him.” On Dimarco, he clarified the contractual situation: “The clause was exercised until 2028, something that was agreed upon. Federico is a true Inter fan, it’s in his blood. We agree that during the year we will have the chance to reconsider the contract, because he shares our desire and his sense of belonging should be valued.”

On the rumors about a possible return of Icardi, Marotta was clear: “A pleasant thought from a former player, but he is not part of our plans.” No moves are expected for a fifth striker either: “It’s pure coincidence that we were missing two while another player was absent. We don’t have a goal-scoring problem: we are prolific in Italy, second only to Roma.” In Europe, the attacking output is lower, but the president attributed this to the overall level of the competitors. Chivu, Marotta concluded, “knows how to enhance and create a tactical approach geared towards scoring goals.”