MILAN – Mauro Icardi has spoken of his pride at wearing the Nerazzurri armband and underlined his desire to remain at Inter for a long time to come.
Speaking to journalists at his 'Icardi for Jeremias' charity dinner this evening, the Argentine explained: "I have a contract until 2019 and I'm definitely staying at Inter.
"Like Zanetti? I need to do a few more years before then! It would be good though. Personally I'm happy to come back here every season and I'm proud to wear the captain's armband."
The charity event – organised by Icardi and his wife Wanda Nara at Melia Hotel in Milan – aims to raise funds to help an Argentine child undergo expensive therapy.
"This is a big night for Jeremias and to help the hospital in Argentina where he began having treatment for his disease," Mauro explained. "Jeremias has West Syndrome. He's had some treatment which helped him improve but we'd like to help him get to China where he could have stem-cell therapy.
"I have children and it's always good to be able to lend a hand to someone in need. Hopefully this dinner tonight can help Jeremias and his family."
The No.9 also fielded questions about the end of the season, his team-mates and coach.
"We cemented fourth place with our win against Empoli in our last game at San Siro. Now we have other game against Sassuolo and all games are important. It will be like any other match because we want to end the season on a high.
“I don't know if any of my team-mates are usettled. You don't notice anything wrong in the dressing room. We're a good bunch of lads.
"As for whether Mancini's staying, he's got another year left on his contract and I'm sure he's happy to stay because we've built up a great group since he came in."
Finally, Icardi was quizzed about a possible Argentina call-up.
"Obviously you do think about it but it's a different matter. I concentrate first and foremost on doing well for Inter, then if the national-team boss gives me a call, I'll answer.
"I haven't spoken to the club about the Olympics. August is still a long way off and I don't know anything at the moment. In any case it's not a concern. If I am selected, we'll discuss it in pre-season."
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