Francesco Acerbi spoke about his move from Lazio to Inter, the difficulty of adaption and being reunited with coach Simone Inzaghi.
The 34-year-old Italian centre back’s time in Rome came to an acrimonious end in the summer following an incredibly difficult year in the Italian capital, where he struggled with poor form and a breakdown in relations with the club’s fans.
After an uncertain summer, Acerbi finally managed to secure his move to Inter on transfer deadline day.
Speaking to RaiSport (via LazioNews24), Acerbi first discussed Italy’s goals in this international break.
The national team must make everyone responsible, we won the European Championship but we went out of the World Cup.
We must roll up our sleeves and give something more all of us, from the first to the last.
He touched on the absence of former captain Giorgio Chiellini, who is currently plying his trade in the MLS with LAFC.
A leader is missing, but there are others in the dressing room. His is an important absence, we already knew that, we have to move on. Italian players don’t grow because they don’t play.
By not playing there is less choice, then there are so many foreigners and the youngsters are given less chance to make mistakes.
This is a problem because the more young players don’t play, the more they drop down the ladder and the more they struggle to show off.
The 34-year-old Italian centre back commented on his transfer from Lazio to Inter earlier this month.
The transition was quite difficult with big problems that have been solved, now I’m very happy to be at Inter.
I found a fantastic group, now there are some difficulties but with the fans, the players, the staff and the directors that are there, everything will be solved.
Hopefully after the break we’ll get going again.
He touched on some of the insults and negativity sent his way over the last 12 months.
Insults are received everywhere you go, even on social media where if you do well you are a phenomenon, but if it goes wrong they slaughter not only you but also your family.
The attitude on the pitch must always be the right one, that’s what really counts. You have to be strong, you can’t hide and you have to go on your way trying to do your best.
Finally, Acerbi gave his thoughts on coach Inzaghi and his own transition from Lazio to Inter.
Going from Lazio to Inter is a quantum leap. In Biancocelesti he did well for many years, now there’s a moment of difficulty, the biggest since he arrived, and there’s pressure.
But I’ve rediscovered the great coach and the great man.
