Inter Milan chief Beppe Marotta dismissed rumors linking the club to Diego Simeone, insisting the Nerazzurri are happy with Cristian Chivu.
Speaking to Sky Sport Italia via FCInterNews, Marotta took stock of recent speculation linking the Argentine with a return to San Siro.
Indeed, the 55-year-old took charge of Atletico Madrid in 2011, turning the club’s fortunes around over the past 15 years.
Furthermore, Los Colchoneros have rewarded him for his exploits with a lucrative contract, making him one of the highest-paid managers in the world.
Meanwhile, Simeone had emerged as a potential candidate to replace Simone Inzaghi at Inter before the appointment of Cristian Chivu.
However, the former midfielder would have to take a substantial pay cut to facilitate his return to Serie A.
Simeone, who played for Inter for two years toward the end of the 20th century, is unlikely to return anytime soon.
Inter Milan President Beppe Marotta Dismisses Diego Simeone Speculation
Atletico Madrid’s Argentinian coach Diego Simeone sits on the bench during the Spanish Copa del Rey (King’s Cup) semi final first leg football match between Club Atletico de Madrid and Athletic Club Bilbao at the Metropolitano stadium in Madrid on February 7, 2024. (Photo by JAVIER SORIANO / AFP) (Photo by JAVIER SORIANO/AFP via Getty Images)
Asked about the alleged pre-contract agreement with Simeone, Marotta replied: “Let’s call it fake news, absolutely. There’s no need to discuss it because we are extremely happy with Chivu.
“Maybe we’ve been a bit lucky, but in substance, Chivu is proving he is up to the task at Inter.”
“From an economic point of view, it’s important but not decisive. Right now, the focus is on the sporting challenge that honors Inter’s history, and we want to do it justice.
“Of course, if we miss this opportunity, we’ll fix the financial side as we go, but it’s not a problem.”
Meanwhile, Marotta believes in Inter’s ability to turn their Champions League tie against Bodo/Glimt around.
“In sport, anything is possible,” he added. “Fortunately, their advantage is significant, but it’s not insurmountable.
“That’s why I’m confident in our team, our players, our determination, and the support of the fans in the stadium. We respect our opponents, but we mustn’t be afraid and we have to give everything.”
Finally, he commented on Ronaldo’s influence on young people at San Siro.
“Well, certainly. Just trying to emulate him a little is enough to give our young players some grit.”