MILAN – Frank de Boer has hailed the sense of unity at the club ahead of Inter's first home game of the season against Palermo on Sunday.
Speaking after meeting Zhang Jindong and president Erick Thohir at the training ground on Saturday morning, the coach explained: "It was nice to meet Mr Zhang and Erick Thohir. Their message was that they're here for us and we're all together - tutti insieme.
“They showed a lot of trust in our work. Obviously they want Inter to return to the positions this club is used to and they're offering us all their support to help us get there.”
De Boer was also asked about the possible arrivals of Gabriel Barbosa and Joao Mario.
“Of course we're very interested in good players but they're not confirmed yet so I don't want to say too much about them.
“Joao Mario can play anywhere in midfield and Gabigol can play in three different positions as a striker so they'd offer us more possibilities but I want to focus on Palermo at the moment. In any case good players will always be welcome at Inter.”
Looking back to last Sunday's opening-day defeat to Chievo, the boss continued: “Clearly we didn't play our best game but I think a lot of it comes down to our players' fitness. We struggled more in the second half because of our physical problems.
“It takes time. You can't change everything in 10 days. You have to respect the Italian culture and the club culture. I have a better idea now and slowly but surely the players are getting to grips with what I want from them as a coach. I'm sure we'll get better every week.
“We've trained well this week and made some progress. The most important thing is that we show we are improving and we wear the Inter jersey with pride every game. That's the first step and I'm convinced we'll see a different Inter tomorrow.
“We're not there yet but our objective is to be in the Champions League spots – Inter must always aim for that. I'm hopeful we can achieve that this season.
“We need to improve a lot, especially physically, because my football philosophy takes a lot of energy, but I know the players want to get there.”
Quizzed on the formation he plans to use at the Meazza, De Boer said: “I'm not going to talk about players' positions with regard to tomorrow's game.
“We all know Banega can play as a deep-lying playmaker. You'll see how we set up tomorrow.
“We want to send out a good signal because first impressions are important. We must be proud to wear the Inter shirt and always give 100% for the club. I want to see that tomorrow.
“The crowd are very important too, when we make a mistake for example. We must always stick together as a team and I include the fans in that.
“We have an experienced team and our players are used to playing different formations – elsewhere and in their national teams. Everyone can play 4-3-3, 5-3-2, or 4-4-2 but you can refine and improve things.
“You could say we played with three at the back in Verona or with five. It's a matter of perspective.
“My favourite system is 4-3-3 and we'll probably play the majority of our games like that because I think it's the best way to achieve success but you also need to realise when you have to change – that's the sign of a good manager.
“I believe in Inter's project and I believe in my ability to bring this club success – that's why I took the job. Any pressure only motivates me to work harder."
The coach also commented on how he is adapting to a new culture.
“How you prepare for a game changes from country to country. The players are used to certain things and I'm used to others and we need to find a middle path. The good thing about this job is you learn every day.
“I'm getting a better idea of the team and the players and we're going to have a very strong squad. Some of the players who haven't done so well in the last few years could experience a new lease of life under a new coach. I'm confident we'll get results and that we can be successful.”
De Boer then offered his take on Inter's Europa League group-stage opponents following Friday's draw in Monaco.
“Southampton have come on a lot in the last two years, especially under Ronald Koeman. They finished sixth in the Premier League last season so they're a very good side.
“Sparta Prague have often played in the Champions League and they're tough to beat.
“As for Hapoel, you don't beat Olympiakos unless you're a good team.”
Finally, the coach said a few words on the earthquake emergency that struck central Italy this week.
"It was a very sad day for the whole world and I feel for the people who have lost their loved ones. My thoughts are with them."
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