Walter Mazzarri warned Inter fans “we need time” ahead of their season opener with Genoa and sent a message to Napoli.

The Nerazzurri begin their Serie A campaign at 17.00 UK time on Sunday, click here for a match preview.

Walter Mazzarri warned Inter fans “we need time” ahead of their season opener with Genoa and sent a message to Napoli.

The Nerazzurri begin their Serie A campaign at 17.00 UK time on Sunday, click here for a match preview.

“I have been in Serie A for 10 years and know the game. Everyone talks about objectives, but instead I get down to work and try to ignore the rest,” said the Coach in his Press conference.

“Everyone is aware we are starting from scratch. The team is younger and some arrived later than others, so the only thing I can say is that we need time. The fans know that too.

“In the opening game of the season we are at 60-70 per cent of top form. Are Ishak Belfodil and Mauro Icardi ready? They need to make an important step, just as Lorenzo Insigne did at Napoli last year, as they are in a prestigious club that everyone wants to beat.

“I don’t like making comparisons with last year’s Inter, but that experience must teach the players not to repeat certain mistakes. My teams have always had a precise identity and tactical balance with an attacking approach, which is what we are looking for.

“It is important to start well, because that creates enthusiasm and lifts morale. The fans should come to the stadium with the right attitude and our players must be encouraged for 95 minutes. If he is jeered or feels the lack of confidence, he’s more likely to make mistakes.

“I said the same thing at Napoli, where unhappiness filters through very quickly. If at the final whistle you didn’t like the performance, then you can jeer to your heart’s content.”

Inter are still without the injured Walter Samuel, Cristian Chivu, Javier Zanetti and Diego Milito. Today Milito made his comeback six months after the knee injury, as he played with the Nerazzurri Primavera youth team to help regain match fitness.

“I need to find out how much Mateo Kovacic can play in his current condition, as he’s the only doubt I have,” continued Mazzarri.

“Icardi told me he’s not 100 per cent either, but he is at our disposal. Am I happy with the squad I have? I don’t want to get into that. The club knows perfectly well what is needed and what isn’t. The rest isn’t up to me.”

Mazzarri was also asked whether he had a message for his former club Napoli.

“I have always said I had four important years at Napoli. I wish all the best to those who worked alongside me and the fans who always gave me strength and passion.”

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