Inter Milan signs Geoffrey Kondogbia for €35 million

Inter Milan made one of their biggest transfers in recent times as the Italian club managed to steal Geoffrey Kondogbia away from Arsenal and from Ac.Milan.

Arsenal were the big favorites of signing Kondogbia but Inter Milan was able to pull off the signing for the French player as they had to whip out €35 million in order to sign the versatile defender who is capable of performing as a central defender or a left-back.

The owner of Inter Milan, Erick Thohir has already praised Kondogbia as the Indonesian businessman stated that their newest signing can be compared to Manchester City’s YayaToure.

Erick Thohir lauded Geoffrey Kondogbia as he told the media: “Kondogbia is much younger than Toure, and can become a much better player with time. Geoffrey will become the cornerstone of a young and strong project.

“I’d like to welcome Kondogbia to the club. It was wonderful to see the fans giving him such an enthusiastic welcome today, showing how much they love Inter.  We want to create a great side, and now it’s up to the players to bring the results.”

After completing his arrival to Inter Milan, Kondogbia revealed information as to why he chose to join Inter Milan instead of Ac.Milan and Arsenal. The 22 year old player said that it has always been a dream of his to join Inter Milan but the key factor that ultimately convinced him in joining was Roberto Mancini as the experienced manager persuaded him into the team. Continue reading “Inter Milan signs Geoffrey Kondogbia for €35 million”

Roberto Mancini has once again increased the pressure on Manuel Pellegrini

Inter Milan boss Roberto Mancini has once again increased the pressure on Manchester City counterpart Manuel Pellegrini by saying that the Chilean should be winning more trophies with the strong squad that he has inherited from him.

Mancini was responsible for buying a number of players currently in the first team of Pellegrini. As much as eight players continue to play regularly for the reigning Premier league champions. However, in order to take a dig at his former club, Mancini says that it is surprising to find them struggling in the league with such a strong squad.

City could be well on their way to losing the league title crown this season, as they trail leaders Chelsea by six points with eight games remaining. Further, Chelsea also could extend this advantage to nine points if they win their game in hand. Mancini constructed this team and eventually led them to the league and FA Cup success before being sacked in 2013. Pellegrini is set to face his first season at City, as the Premier League outfit are on the verge of being knocked out from the Champions League at the hands of Barcelona. The Catalan club have a 2-1 lead from the first leg. Continue reading “Roberto Mancini has once again increased the pressure on Manuel Pellegrini”

Inter Milan helped Shaqiri a lot

Inter Milan spent a lot of money in securing the services of Switzerland wingerXherdan Shaqiri from Bayern Munich at the start of the January transfer window. He has immediately repaid them with an impressive performance against Sampdoria in the Italian cup.

Struggling to find their form in the league, Inter can at least look forward to playing in the next round of the Coppa Italia after a 2-0 win sees them through to the next round. The two teams were unable to find the decisive breakthrough for much of the match untilXherdan Shaqiri came up with the opening goal in the 71st minute.

Icardi’s goal close to injury time confirmed the victory, while Sampdoria were reduced to just nine men by that period. Despite the obvious man advantage, Inter manager Roberto Mancini was especially happy with his new signingShaqiri. Continue reading “Inter Milan helped Shaqiri a lot”

Francesco Totti coming near to Retirement

Roma striker Francesco Totti remains as one of the few one club players still plying their trade in the European leagues.

The 38-year-old may be coming to the end of his career, but he still contributes immensely to the team. His goal against Manchester City in the Champions League away from home is a testament to the fact that Totti still remains at the top of his game. However, many feel that he is about to retire within the next couple of years. It is almost certain that he will be involved with Roma in some position, but the 38-year-old has revealed his desire to become a manager.

There have been a number of Italian players who have become managers in recent history. Carlo Ancelotti is one of the popular ones after the former AC Milan midfielder managed to embark on a successful coaching career. Totti has played an instrumental role in Roma once again challenging for the title this season. After 12 rounds of Italian Serie A, they remain only three points behind table leaders Juventus. The striker was recently given the Facchetti Award as a recognition for the immense contribution he has made to the game in the last decade or so. During the award ceremony, Totti said that Fifa should consider giving individual FIFA Ballon d’Or awards for every position.

“I would like to become Roma’s Coach, of course. You know that just a few days ago I was talking with a friend and told them: ‘[The ex-players] are doing it all. I think that eventually, [coaching] will also appeal to me’. Maybe I’ll start with the kids, although perhaps there is no need at the moment.

After all, it doesn’t take players of my ilk long to learn. I’d only [play my son Cristian] if he deserved it. It would lead me to some discomfort for sure, but I would never have any problems with Cristian. He’s a good boy,” said Totti.