Moratti fans Juve flames
Friday 2 November, 2007
Inter chief Massimo Moratti has stirred controversy ahead of the Derby d’Italia by discussing the aftermath of the Calciopoli scandal.
The two bitter rivals clash at the Stadio Olimpico after a year’s hiatus caused by the Old Lady’s exile to Serie B.
When Juve were demoted, Inter stepped in to sign Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Patrick Vieira – a move that many Juventini resented.
“Ibrahimovic and Vieira were up for sale and we made an offer that was in keeping with their market value,” Moratti stated.
“We didn’t take advantage of their problems and they thanked me for that. The Juventus fans have suffered due to Calciopoli, but we were the real victims of the last 10 years.”
Inter looked formidable as they destroyed Genoa 4-1 and Moratti has called for the same spirit in Turin.
“I want to see the same performance as we gave on Wednesday,” he declared. “We were determined and spectacular.
“Furthermore, we were without the backbone of our side in Julio Cesar, Marco Materazzi, Vieira and Ibrahimovic.
“We don’t have to fear anyone. Our main rivals are Roma and Milan, but Fiorentina and Juventus deserve respect.”