Former Inter coach Simone Inzaghi expressed his disbelief upon hearing that the Nerazzurri are implicated in a refereeing scandal in Serie A. He contends that the team was ‘harmed and not favored’ last season and emphasizes that victories against Barcelona and Bayern Munich in the Champions League were just as thrilling as winning trophies.
The former Inter coach shared his thoughts on the ongoing refereeing controversy in Serie A.
Advertisement
Referee Designator Rocchi has taken a leave of absence after Milan prosecutors accused him of influencing VAR decisions and appointing referees that favored Inter for certain matches in the upcoming 2024-25 season.
However, recent reports indicate that Rocchi never met with Inter executives, and there are no players or officials from Inter or any other Serie A club currently under investigation.
“I was shocked. Inter lost a significant number of points last season due to refereeing errors in Serie A and the Supercoppa,” Inzaghi told Gazzetta.
“It’s surprising to see us involved in this narrative, as we were the ones harmed, not favored.
“How could one entertain thoughts of a scheme? It was simply a difficult season for us. I have always respected referees’ work and don’t wish to comment on Napoli, who undeniably won the Scudetto,” Inzaghi elaborated.
Advertisement
“Yet, there remains a feeling that we were deprived of something. I have no accusations to make, and I trust in good faith. Let’s just say we were unlucky, and the odds seemed against us. It’s a lingering disappointment that doesn’t fade away. Losing the title by just one point feels particularly painful.”
Inzaghi enjoyed four successful seasons at Inter, where he captured one Serie A title and reached the Champions League Final twice.
“I achieved a lot in my four years, and I am content with the outcomes,” he stated.
Inzaghi walks past the trophy after losing the UEFA Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain and Internazionale Milano in Munich, Germany, on May 31, 2025. EPA-EFE/ANNA SZILAGYI
Advertisement
“Having reached two Champions League Finals is a significant achievement. I welcome criticism directed at me, as long as it pertains to my performance and not the players, who always gave their all for me.
“I wouldn’t change a thing. We aimed for a treble, and we paid a steep price for the 23 extra games we played compared to Napoli last season,” he added.
“Inter has a duty to compete at the highest levels, and those memorable nights against Bayern and Barcelona will be cherished more than any trophy—unforgettable victories.”
Inzaghi’s final game with Inter ended in a disappointing 5-0 defeat to PSG in the Champions League Final.
“We approached the match with little energy, both physically and mentally,” he clarified.
Advertisement
“This isn’t an excuse, just a reality. The letdown of losing the title affected our morale. PSG is an elite team, as demonstrated in their recent match against Bayern. It still stings to have lost in that manner, but we must remember our previous achievements in Europe.”
Did he inform the Inter players of his departure just days before the final?
“Absolutely not. I couldn’t have done that because I hadn’t made the painful decision yet, one that was difficult for both my family and me,” he asserted.
epa11294807 Inter’s coach Simone Inzaghi (R) and CEO Giuseppe Marotta celebrate after winning the Italian Serie A match between AC Milan and FC Inter in Milan on April 22, 2024. EPA-EFE/DANIEL DAL ZENNARO
Advertisement
“The truth is everything transpired rapidly. Just two days after the Champions League Final, I met with Marotta, Ausilio, and Baccin at Marotta’s house. During this discussion, I communicated my desire to move on as I felt a cycle had concluded. While they wanted to continue, they understood my decision. We parted amicably and remain friends. Had we won the Champions League, I would have stayed.”
Inzaghi joined Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal last year and does not regret his choice.
“Thankfully, financial concerns have never hindered me; I’m not driven by money,” he stated.
“I had a wonderful home in Milan, with a view of San Siro. Their offer persuaded me, and here I am, quite content.”
Advertisement
Meanwhile, the Nerazzurri are on the cusp of capturing the Scudetto under Cristian Chivu.
“They’ve performed exceptionally well. Winning is never simple, and Chivu deserves credit as well,” Inzaghi remarked.
“I was familiar with the squad and had no doubt about their capabilities. Selecting Cristian was the right choice; I knew he was dedicated to the job. Now they need to celebrate and aim to win the Coppa Italia.”
The Coppa Italia Final on May 13 will see Inter square off against Lazio, both of which are Inzaghi’s former clubs. Who will he root for?
“Neither; I’ll relax and enjoy the show,” he replied.
“Both clubs have contributed significantly to my career, so may the best team win. Anything can happen in a final.”
Advertisement
Recent comments by Federico Dimarco and Piotr Zielinski seemed to criticize Inzaghi’s management style recently.
“Federico enjoyed great seasons with me, and he’s aware of that. I retained him at Inter after observing him in training for ten days; otherwise, he might have been loaned out again. His comments may have been misinterpreted. We share a solid relationship and still keep in touch,” Inzaghi concluded.
“I’ve read various opinions concerning Zielinski, but many forget that I was the one who wanted him at Inter when Marotta and Ausilio suggested there might be a chance. Unfortunately, he faced numerous fitness issues last season and struggled to showcase his abilities.”