Former Internazionale CEO Antonello stated in an interview with TuttoMercatoWeb that Internazionale has rebuilt from difficult times and the Champions League dream must continue for the fans.
After his time in Marseille ended, Antonello was interviewed by TuttoMercatoWeb at the headquarters of Banca Ifis in Venice, where the 25 finalists for the European Golden Boy award were also announced that day. Speaking about his experience in France, Antonello said: "Every experience is positive. It's valuable to experience a different league and a country that consistently produces players and young talent. I personally learned how France develops its youth academies, which is extremely important. Italian football could benefit from learning this approach and implementing youth development reforms."
Antonello stated: "Right now, attention is focused on the political and institutional issues that need to be resolved, but we must act quickly; we cannot afford to wait. Young people must have opportunities in Italian football, and clubs need strong organization, not just in terms of infrastructure, but also coaching staff."
Regarding infrastructure and youth development, he said: "Currently, everyone is focused on infrastructure. The European Championship also gave us a valuable opportunity to improve our facilities, because without them, it's difficult to plan effectively. Next, we must give more opportunities to young talent. This is not easy because in Italy, short-term competitive success often takes priority over medium- and long-term planning. In France, clubs are not afraid to give young players chances, and they eventually succeed, sometimes even moving to the Premier League. We must adopt this approach as well."
Speaking about his time at Internazionale, Antonello said: "It was a very important experience. We started during a difficult period for the club and rebuilt it on and off the pitch. The youth academy is one of the club's greatest strengths, and I'm proud to have worked with Beppe Marotta. I'm also proud that when I left Internazionale, the team was still competing at the highest level in Europe, which gives me great satisfaction. Unfortunately, we didn't win the Champions League, but I hope it will be achieved in the future."
Antonello stated: "The foundation is there, the team is there, and the structure is there, but competing in Europe is always extremely difficult. However, for the fans, the Champions League is always a dream that must be continuously pursued, and only the results on the pitch will tell how it develops."
Antonello concluded: "I now have strong desire and energy to start fresh, and I'm looking for the right project where I can contribute my experience."
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