Leonardo introduced as Inter manager

Inter Milan boss Leonardo spoke of the ‘tremendous’ challenge he faces after being introduced as the club’s new manager on Wednesday.

Brazilian Leonardo, 41, a former manager of Inter’s fierce rivals AC Milan, was appointed the successor of Rafael Benitez on Friday.

Benitez was relieved of his duties after some indifferent Serie A form saw reigning champions Inter slump to seventh place in the table, 13 points behind leaders Milan.

“This challenge is so tremendous, so exciting, so unexpected, so surprising, I couldn’t refuse,” Leonardo said.

Leonardo said he had spoken with former Inter boss Jose Mourinho, who guided the club to Champions League and Serie A glory last season, and said the Portuguese manager had some sage words of advice.

“Jose was fantastic with me, I called him because I think arriving at Inter without speaking to Jose is just impossible,” Leonardo said.

“Jose is just everywhere. We spoke about a lot of things, lots of things based on what he thinks.”

“I am talking about him being an intelligent person, someone who knows this profession so well and a person who is always present. He has left so much, so much and I am very happy about what he gave me,” he added.

Inter President Massimo Moratti said he has full confidence that the new manager will turn his side’s flagging fortunes around.

“I take full responsibility for this choice and I am completely calm about it. The emotion is great and I hope Leonardo will feel at home so he can work for the club and above all for the fans, for the hopes and the dreams of the fans,” Moratti said.

Leonardo’s first match at the Inter helm will be next week’s Serie A clash with Napoli at the San Siro.