Stramaccioni: Money talks at Inter

Coach Andrea Stramaccioni has warned that no player, even Wesley Sneijder, is indispensable due to Inter’s financial plight.

The 36-year-old, who took charge initially last season on an interim basis, is happy with his new signings, but issued a stark warning to the current players.

“(Whether we sell the likes of Sneijder) is up to (club president Massimo) Moratti,” he said in his first press conference of the season.

“From a technical point of view, I consider him irreplaceable, but we are at a particular time in football where money rules.

“(Rodrigo) Palacio, (Matias) Silvestre and (Samir) Handanovic are important players that the club have followed for some time. We also have (Freddy) Guarin who will play a major part this season.

“I think that we have done a good job in the market, and I believe the boys are motivated. I hope the new players can motivate the existing ones to up their performance levels.

“We have a clear idea [of the sort of football to play] but this is a difficult time for the game from an economic point of view. I hope players arrive knowing how we want to play.”

He then went on to discuss the future of Julio Cesar, following his departure from the squad list for the coming season.

“Julio Cesar and I have a great relationship. I do not question his value to the team,” he continued.

“I think Julio is among one of the best goalkeepers in the world, but as our president said: ‘Inter come first’ and the club are entitled to make any decision they want.”

Finally, he concluded the interview by discussing the objectives for the season ahead, and said that his main targets were winning the Europa League and getting back into the top three of Serie A.

“I want a motivated team, willing to work and eager to overturn the disappointment of last season,” he said.

“I hardly believe any coach this early on will be able to tell you how their season will turn out, but I am confident we have a good basis from which to work, starting with the Europa League.

“This year, the Europa League will be our competition. I really want to do well. Our main objective though, is to reach the Champions League.”