“THEY HAVE PLAYED 19 GAMES LESS THAN US” – Marotta’s explosive statements on Napoli’s Scudetto shake Italian football
In an exclusive interview with Italy’s most widely read sports daily, Inter president Giuseppe Marotta made statements that set the national football scene alight. In just 15 minutes of conversation, the Nerazzurri manager exposed – according to him – the truth behind Napoli’s Scudetto win in the season just ended. And his words did not go unnoticed.
A direct and unfiltered accusation
“ Their Scudetto? It is the result of our mistakes. ” This is how Marotta began, without mincing words, when the interviewer asked him for an opinion on Napoli’s triumph. “ They have played 19 games less than us , between Cups, international commitments and continuous injuries that have decimated us. It is easy to win when you have a fresh squad every week.”
The attack is direct, almost personal, and has immediately made the rounds on the web. For Marotta, the real feat would have been that of Inter, who fought on several fronts and who, despite a suffocating calendar, held their own until the final days.
The context: a grueling season for Inter
Inter’s season has been characterized by constant commitment on all fronts: Champions League, Coppa Italia and championship. In some weeks, the Nerazzurri have played up to three games in seven days, with forced rotations and significant absences.
Marotta doesn’t hide it: ” We paid the price of ambition. But if I have to choose between winning the Scudetto and moving forward in Europe, I have no doubts: I want to see Inter compete with the best in the world. “
An indirect jab also at Napoli’s strategy, which, after its early exit from European competitions, was able to concentrate all its energies on Serie A.
Naples responds: “The pitch has spoken”
Marotta’s words did not go unreplied. Through an official statement, Napoli defined the statements of the Inter president as ” disrespectful and far from sporting reality “.
“ We won on the field, deservedly, leading the standings for months and playing the best football in Italy. If others failed, it is not our fault. ” This is the clear and unequivocal message coming from Castel Volturno.
Luciano Spalletti, coach of the Neapolitans, also wanted to have his say: “ I talk about football, not chatter. And our football won. ”
Fans divided, social media heated
As expected, Marotta’s statements have divided public opinion and sparked debates on social media. Inter fans have staunchly defended their president, emphasizing the team’s superhuman commitment throughout the season.
“ With 60 games under our belt, we would have won on equal terms ,” writes a Nerazzurri user on X. Others, however, ask for respect for the work done by Simone Inzaghi and the management, accusing the media of downplaying Inter’s season.
On the other hand, Napoli supporters are crying scandal. “ They are bitter because we were superior ,” is the general tone of the reactions. “ Marotta should accept the defeat and prepare better for next year. ”
A communication strategy or authentic venting?
Many sports analysts are wondering about Marotta’s true intentions. Was it a simple emotional outburst? Or is it a communication strategy to divert attention from a year that, however positive, left a bitter taste in the mouth?
According to some commentators, Marotta’s words could have the aim of protecting the locker room and reinforcing the sense of injustice among the players. ” Creating an external enemy is a motivational technique. And Marotta knows it well ,” said the well-known sports journalist Enrico De Giovanni.
What future for Inter?
Despite the controversy, Inter is looking ahead. With the Champions League final upon us and a summer transfer window already planned in detail, the Nerazzurri want to come back stronger than ever.
“ We are building something important. Our cycle is not over, it has just begun ,” concluded Marotta, implying that next season will be even more competitive.
Conclusion: a summer that promises to be fiery
The sparks between Inter and Napoli do not seem destined to die down any time soon. Marotta’s statements have raised the temperature in an already hot period for Italian football. While we wait for new developments, one thing is certain: the rivalry between the two teams has just entered a new phase, made not only of football played, but also of words, pride and provocations.
And the fans, of course, are just waiting for the next chapter.
