AGRATE – It was the Inter youth academy’s turn for a Christmas party on Friday night as they met for a night of festivities.
The evening began with a video message from president Erick Thohir: "Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! I’m sorry I can’t be with you tonight, but I would like you to know that I am very proud of what you are doing. Many of our youth sides are in first place in their leagues… Primavera, you need to catch up with your friends! You have all seen the first team’s character and personality – you can aspire to that too.
"We want to support your every need. Inter has always had one of the best youth academies in the world and we want that to continue. At the same time, I, the whole club and Roberto Samaden strongly believe that our young players can make the step up to the first team. There are already several players who have done it: Santon, Gnoukouri, Dimarco and Biabiany. I can’t wait for many of you to reach the first team and help build a great Inter side. Forza Inter!"
CEO Michael Bolingbroke then said a few words: "As you know, the youth academy has a central role in our club’s strategy. Erick Thohir and I are both very proud of you and the results you have achieved. Thank you! I wish you and your families a very merry Christmas."
Also in attendance was Roberto Mancini: "I was desperate to be here again this here. I know how much you want to make it to the first team. The greatest chance you have is being able to train with such able personnel. That’s the most important thing. It’s a pleasure to give young players their chance in the first team, and I’m sure there’ll be many more in the future. Young players are our future and having top-quality youngsters is vital for a club like Inter. I wish you a fantastic 2016."
Next to speak with vice president Javier Zanetti: "It’s lovely to be here – I feel like I’m a kid again! I want to congratulate you because the trophies you have won haven’t come by chance. Our youth academy is very professional indeed. You are a very important part of our club and I hope many of you can live the dream I did. We will always be there for you, to respond to your every need in order to transmit the proper values. I wish you a merry Christmas and a 2016 full of happiness."
Dejan Stankovic had his say too: "You are lucky enough to be at a massive club like Inter and work with fantastic professionals. I did the same thing with Red Star. I wish you all the best."
Francesco Toldo was also present: "You need to nurture the passion you have for the game. Stay humble throughout your journey and you’ll go far."
Sporting director Piero Ausilio then addressed the young Inter stars: "There have already been many lovely things said and lots of good advice given. You have been chosen from lots of young players and you’re very lucky because you’re at a huge club. Wearing the Inter shirt brings with it great responsibility – you need to be aware of where you are and never give up. That’s what it means to be part of Inter."
Last but not least, youth academy director Roberto Samaden took to the floor: "It’s wonderful to see everyone here today. And it’s amazing to see all the silverware we’ve won and think of all those players that have come through our youth academy to make that step up to senior football. I want to thank all the extraordinary people that work alongside me, from Erick Thohir to everyone at the club."
