The former striker discusses the title race, Milan stadium news, and the potential of Chivu and Pio Esposito.
Former striker Christian “Bobo” Vieri delivered a candid interview, openly sharing his opinions on the future of San Siro and Inter`s prospects for the Scudetto. He emphatically stated that the demolition of the historic stadium is “finally, it`s about time” and named Inter as the undeniable favorites for the Serie A title this season. He joked, “If I knew for sure, I`d place a bet!”
On the sidelines of an event organized by Stars On Field for the presentation of Tortona`s new Sports Citadel, Vieri touched upon various significant topics, ranging from young talents like Pio Esposito and Chivu to the Italian National team.
San Siro Demolition: A Necessary Step Forward
Let`s start with the freshest news. San Siro is reportedly being sold to Inter and Milan, with demolition work on this historic stadium for Italian football set to begin in the coming months. What are your thoughts on this?
“I think it`s about time. Finally, we will have a new, state-of-the-art stadium that the city of Milan deserves. They tore down Wembley to build a more modern facility, better suited to the needs of today`s football and society. We can certainly do the same without constantly despairing. Then we wonder why we fall behind.”
What about the memories? You wrote important pages within those walls.
“Absolutely, those memories remain. So do many others. But is it really preferable not to be able to host the European Championships or the Champions League final because we don`t have a modern stadium? That`s unacceptable, and honestly, I don`t think it benefits anyone.”
Scudetto Race: Inter as the Frontrunner
Moving on to the actual football played. If I mention the word `Scudetto,` who do you see as the favorite?
“I believe Inter is still a step ahead of the others. In terms of quality, experience, and squad depth. But be careful, I say they *can* win, not that they absolutely *must*. It`s a very balanced league where anything can happen. But if I had to place a chip, I`d put it on the Nerazzurri.”
On Chivu and Pio Esposito: Time and Trust are Key
What`s your impression of Chivu?
“I know many people at the club, I often talk to them, and they tell me he`s a workaholic coach with a strong desire to do well. However, he needs to be given confidence. It`s not acceptable to start talking about a crisis or sacking if he loses against Udinese. Give him time.”
In recent weeks, there`s been increasing talk about Pio Esposito. Last Saturday, he scored against Cagliari, and now, with Thuram`s injury, he might get even more playing time. Do you think he`s ready for a significant role like an Inter jersey?
“I certainly do, both physically and technically. He can hold his own even on the international stage. But here too, it takes time. I know he trains very well and has a huge desire to conquer the world. These are the key factors. Just let him play in peace, and we`ll see how far he goes.”
Could pressure be an obstacle for him?
“For me, it should be a stimulus. A great player is one who manages to transform fear into adrenaline. You might not sleep at night, perhaps, but you get yourself properly charged up. Playing in the Champions League, playing the derby – it`s normal to have slightly shaky legs. But it must be fuel to always give more.”
The Italian National Team: Faith in Gattuso
Finally, on the National team chapter. How did you view Gattuso`s squad?
“In the recent outings, I saw them play well; they convinced me. We could spend all day asking why we struggle so much to qualify for the World Cup. I don`t know. Now we have to win the next matches, score many goals, and hope. And if we end up in a play-off, we must be good enough to give everything. I have faith in Rino [Gattuso] and the boys.”
