President Erick Thohir maintains Walter Mazzarri is “a good Coach for us next season. I’m looking for stability.”
The patron is in Madrid to present an upcoming exhibition match between Inter and Real Madrid legends, but also discussed plans for next term.
President Erick Thohir maintains Walter Mazzarri is “a good Coach for us next season. I’m looking for stability.”
The patron is in Madrid to present an upcoming exhibition match between Inter and Real Madrid legends, but also discussed plans for next term.
“I’m keeping focused on our objectives. And today I was amazed by Real Madrid’s infrastructure for their youth team and first team. I think it’s one of the best in the world,” Thohir told media and the official Inter website.
“But for me the most important focus is on the club, the financial aspects, the strong management and the strong team we’re going to build. Then after three years we’re going to focus on infrastructure. Those are the steps we have to take.
“It doesn’t mean we don’t want to build a team. We’ve been discussing lots of things in the last few months with Coach Mazzarri. I think he’ll be a good Coach for us next season. I’m looking for stability. The owners believe in loyalty, they're not just looking for a quick fix.
“There has to be a blueprint and everything has to follow a strategy. But at the same time I want results. So it’s more than just a question of loyalty, because it’s no good without the results. Loyalty is very important to me, but so are the results.”
Thohir was asked if he had discussed players with Real Madrid President Florentino Perez during this trip, especially amid reports director Piero Ausilio had dinner with Alvaro Morata’s agents last night.
“No, I don’t think we’ll be discussing these things. The reason I’m here is to meet him for the first time and for Inter Forever. Also, it’s up to the sporting director to deal with signings, not me.
“It’s important to maintain a good relationship between the clubs. I believe there has to be mutual respect. Not just secret talks and striking a deal with the players without the club knowing. I don’t think that’s right. I’m a businessman and these things have to be based on trust. Not just taking advantage of an opportunity when it arises.”
Indonesian magnate Thohir also commented on rumours Singapore-based businessman Peter Lim is preparing an offer to buy into Milan.
“I know Peter Lim very well. He’s a good person but I can’t comment on his investments. I know he had been looking at Liverpool and Valencia.
“But it’s good for me to have friends like him who own other teams, like Vincent Tan at Cardiff, or Tony Fernandes and Ruben at Queens Park Rangers. It makes for a good network and the clubs become more global.
“In Major League Soccer, Manchester City are investing in New York, and I also have investments in Washington DC. I think it’s good to see sport become more global and show that everyone loves football.”