RISCONE DI BRUNICO – Luciano Spalletti cut a satisfied figure after watching his Inter side’s first outing end in victory. The team emerged 2-1 winners over Austrian side WSG Wattens in Riscone di Brunico.
Speaking after the win, the new boss said: "I couldn't have asked for more from this game. The players had a good level of control out there and the defensive line played as it should.
"We also pressed as a team. So this friendly has given me substance with which to work in greater detail. What was most remarkable was the willingness to put into practice what we’d been over during training.
"So far we’ve mainly worked on the defensive line, because we’re missing almost all of our attacking options. You could see that we’ve done good work, we also created some good openings up front.
As for the impact of goalscorer Andrea Pinamonti, the coach said: "It’s no surprise to me. We know he is a promising youngster, with a great deal of quality.
"We just need to make sure he develops in the best way possible, because he’s a complete player for that role. He’s got speed, strength, quality and he’s a good lad. Players with good approaches like that always go further.
"Geoffrey Kondogbia? From what I’ve seen, he’s an Inter player. He can play the ball, pass and he makes good decisions. He can play in the holding role in front of the defence and in centre midfield.
"Jeison Murillo? He played that position today because of the players I had available. He’s a central defender but he can clearly do different things.
"Borja Valero? He’s one of those players with his own trademark, which he imprints on a game every time he takes to the pitch. He’s got experience and quality, in addition to the fact that he can play in numerous different positions. I’m convinced that all Inter fans will like him.
"What will I say to Ivan Perisic? I’ll have a chat with everyone. He’s an important player and we’re counting on him. We’ll get an understanding of what his intention is, but I’m not expecting anyone to tell me they want to leave. In any case there will be more space for those that are attracted by Inter.
"Andrea Ranocchia? All I can say to him is to train well because we’re depending on him, then we’ll see what happens in the market.
"I’ve seen the support from the fans, but I work more in the shadows. It’s crucial that the fans help our players, all of them. They’ll be giving me a hand if that’s the case, and they’ll make me feel good too. The Inter fans can be a powerful force. I saw it last year when I came to the San Siro and it’s also shown by the team having the best average attendance in Serie A. They’ll be a massive boost but I want them to direct their energy towards our players.
"Leaders? We don’t need one, but ten. I want to have different players with a strong mentality. We’ve a team with many big personalities and we need to show that."
