MILAN - Javier Zanetti stressed the impact of Suning Group in an interview this morning on "Radio Anch'io Sport." The Inter vice president told the Radio Rai 1 show about how things have changed since the Chinese invested in the club: "[Their arrival] is very positive because they're a really serious proposition. We're planning for the present and future and we're all willing to put in a lot of hard work to take Inter to the top. We want the club to continue growing and that's why we're looking at our stadium and new facilities for the academy - whose success continues to grow - and we're also pressing ahead with projects such as Inter Campus. Our aim is for the club to consistently be at the top and that's why it's important we've found a committed partner who really values the history of this institution."
Zanetti then assessed how De Boer has fared since taking over as head coach: "Frank is doing an excellent job and everything is in place for us to do well. It's only natural there were a few teething problems, it takes time to get to know Italian football but he's shown great professionalism and he's doing a fine job. We're improving week by week. Sure, there's work to do but we've taken the game to our opponents in recent weeks and even when we've fallen behind, we've shown the strength to bounce back."
The vice president also clarified the rationale behind Kondogbia coming off on the half-hour mark: "Yesterday the coach realised the team needed a player who could offer something different and he was brave enough to make that change quickly. The substitution was not a slight on Geoffrey's performance."
The Argentine then revealed the process that goes on behind every transfer deal, in looking ahead to the January window: "We speak to Frank on a daily basis and the club will definitely listen to what he has to say. We have a great squad, with some exciting players who can achieve great things. Signings such as Candreva, Banega and Joao Mario have brought the standard up. The decision to leave out Brozovic was made by the club and the coaching staff. He's now showing that he wants to once again be a part of the squad. When the time's right, he will contribute again."
Although the Nerazzurri face a big game at Roma on Sunday, Zanetti insisted his side are taking the Europa League seriously: "We have to show this competition the respect it deserves. Sure, we started badly but we have the chance to bounce back on Thursday after losing our opening match. Then we'll start thinking about Roma."
The vice president knows a thing or two about longevity, making him well placed to comment on Totti, as the Roma skipper prepares to turn 40: "Passion is the secret to his success. Plus wearing the captain's armband gives you additional responsibility and a special rapport with the club. It's wonderful for all football lovers to still see Francesco out there performing. I'd like to wish him many happy returns. We shared some great experiences during our playing careers and I hope he continues to show what he can do. I still play the odd game thanks to Francesco Toldo and the Inter Forever project."
Finally, Zanetti discussed whether he might one day become president of the Nerazzurri: "I'm just focused on my current role and I'm delighted to have been given this opportunity. I thank president Thohir and the new owners, who have a lot of faith in me and involve me in important decisions. I'm pleased with what I'm doing and we're starting to see results. I hope Inter can always aim to achieve great things. I still have very strong ties to the fans I will never stop thanking them for the support they've always shown me."
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