RISCONE DI BRUNICO – Brazilian defender Miranda was keen to stress the importance of Roberto Mancini in his decision to move to the club this summer when he met with the media for his official unveiling as a Nerazzurri player today.
After enjoying a longer break following his Copa America exertions and making his debut against Galatasaray on Sunday, the experienced centre-back today told the gathered journalists in Brunico: "Mancini was a major factor when I decided to come here. He's a top coach."
The manager was not the only lure of course. The 30-year-old added: "Coming to Inter was an easy decision to make because this is a great club. Just playing here is motivation enough for anyone."
The former Atletico Madrid man was asked to compare his former coach and ex-Inter forward Diego Simeone with new boss Mancini. "You can't compare the two. They're both great coaches but in different ways. Simeone is more defence-minded while Mancini likes to play a more attacking game."
On that subject, Miranda was reminded that Inter have had a few defensive problems in pre-season. "We need to think positive because it's still pre-season. It's not really a problem if we concede goals now because we need to work and improve together."
Asked for a comment on his fellow defenders, he said: "They've all got different attributes but the ones I've seen so far are good. I know I've been brought in to help tighten up at the back and I'll put everything I have into it. We have a new-look defence and it will take a while to get used to playing together but if you want to be a great team you need a well-drilled defence and communication is key to that."
What targets does Miranda feel Inter can achieve in the coming season? "Getting into the Champions League is our first target, and if we can do even better than that, then great."
On his choice of shirt number (25): "I had 23 at Atletico and this is the closest one that was free. There's no other special reason."
Finally, the Brazil defender was asked about the possibility of Felipe Melo joining Inter. "I've played with him before with the Selecao and I know he's a very good player. If he does join Inter, he'll be an excellent addition."
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