Moratti: I don't want Italian players Friday 22 February, 2008
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Inter President Massimo Moratti insists it is “not a priority” to introduce more Italians into the team and explains why their fans should be proud.
Internazionale have certainly lived up to their name recently, as often Marco Materazzi is the only Italian in the side.
The club has been criticised for this approach, but the patron has no intention of embracing homegrown talent.
“My intention is to invest less in new signings. It is not a priority to add more Italians to the squad, despite what some claim, but rather to safeguard the current side and eventually introduce some elements from the youth team.”
The only real signing during the January transfer window was Atletico Madrid midfielder Nuno Maniche.
“I am happy to have brought in Maniche, as he can prove useful both in Serie A and the Champions League,” added Moratti.
They are 11 points clear at the top of the table, but the 2-0 first leg defeat at Anfield brought up more doubts over their European pedigree.
After the controversy over refereeing errors in their favour and accusations of being ‘irritating’ to neutral supporters, Moratti gave a message to the tifosi.
“You must be proud of being an Interista, because we are better than everyone else.”
Channel 4