Antonio Conte’s pre-match conference was streamed live from Suning’s Training Centre in Appiano Gentile for the matchday 9 against Parma.
Conte was in full praise of his friend and current head coach of Parma, Roberto D’aversa. Conte also praised Parma for their recent form and specifically mentioned Gervinho, the one to watch.
When asked about Inter’s current situation in the attack, Conte quickly responded:
“We have a lot of options in the attack with specific skills and characteristics.” Coach mentioned Lautaro, Lukaku and Sanchez as main forwards but also admired Politano’s versatility to be a forward player when needed. As expected, coach also mentioned Esposito as an option due to his brilliant pre-season form.
Antonio Conte also affirmed Inter’s position as being on track and on course, “As more time goes by, we would have a clear and easier idea. I think we all can see the identity of this side.”
Conte also responded to a question about having many Italians in the team by saying:
“The aim is to have lots of reliable and strong players. Italian or from abroad, it does not matter. But Italian players give you guarantees right away. They know the league, the methods and so on. Us Italians are more tactical and so on. Abroad is a little different. So there’s advantage of having lots of Italian players. An Italian core is important I think.”
Conte chuckled and said he considers Samir Handanovic an Italian too as he’s been in Italy for so long and understands the way things work. Coach also said how demanding he is and would like Sensi and Brozovic to be world class.
“Apart from motivational words, I will make sure the players know what I want. It is important for me to tell the players what I want as I was not happy with the last 20 minutes of the Sassuolo match. They know I do not want a repeat of that” When asked what would be his message to the team before going in to the match against Parma. Conte also praised his defenders particularly De Vrij by calling him another playmaker. Conte said “The back three are the first playmakers.”
Last question of the press conference was regarding the youth sensation Lucien Agoume’s play time. Coach responded by saying the youngster needs more time because he has come from another league, despite the qualities and abilities. The coach also praised the entire youth section and said they are doing well.
Conte exited the conference by admiring the work of Inter Academy and Thanked all those who were present.
