Inter CEO Marotta Responds to Milan Owner’s Controversial Comments
Inter Milan CEO Giuseppe Marotta has issued a forceful rebuttal to recent statements made by AC Milan owner Gerry Cardinale regarding Inter’s financial situation. Marotta characterized Cardinale’s remarks as “confused and disrespectful,” particularly taking issue with the suggestion that Inter had gone bankrupt while winning the Serie A title.
Speaking to the media before Inter’s match against Como, Marotta addressed the controversy head-on: “I feel obligated to respond to these inappropriate comments that show a lack of respect for our club’s reputation and image. I believe Mr. Cardinale is quite mistaken in his understanding of the situation.”
Marotta went on to clarify Inter’s financial position: “While it’s true that our majority shareholder faced some financial challenges in recent years, they were already working with Oaktree Capital, who now own the club and set our strategic direction. Inter’s management approach has been entirely different. We adhere strictly to Financial Fair Play rules and national licensing requirements, which have very strict economic criteria.”
The CEO highlighted Inter’s financial progress, noting: “We’ve reduced our losses from €246 million to just €46 million last year – a season in which we also won the Serie A title and the Supercoppa Italiana.”
In a pointed jab at their city rivals, Marotta concluded: “And since we’re in the holiday season, let’s not forget that we’re the only club in Milan with two stars on our jerseys,” referencing Inter’s 20 league titles compared to AC Milan’s 19.
Marotta’s comments underscore the ongoing rivalry between the two Milan clubs, both on and off the pitch. The exchange also highlights the increasing scrutiny of football club finances in the modern era.