Pioli: ‘Inter came at right time’
By Football Italia staff

Stefano Pioli says Inter’s call to him to take over as Coach came at just the right moment in his career.

The 51-year-old had been out of work since his sacking by Lazio in April but was sounded out by the Nerazzurri hierarchy to succeed Frank De Boer.

Since his appointment, a good run of form has seen the San Siro club climb to 7th in the table, reviving hopes of Champions League qualification.

“I have followed Inter for many years as a fan,” Pioli said in an interview with Inter Channel. “Then, I faced them on different occasions as an opponent.

“Now, I am living through this period with great intensity. When you come in during the season, it means that the results have not been coming so you cannot be calm.

“We need concrete and effective things. That’s what we are trying to do.

“I was in New York when the call came from the club, the news was fantastic. There are things that happen in life at the right time and I think this came up at the ideal moment for my career.

“I feel ready, I have had the necessary experiences to be able to arrive here in the best moment of my career.

“There is great satisfaction but also responsibility because Inter is a passion. However, my staff and I are facing the situation with a lot of pride.”

Pioli then expressed his opinion that despite their difficult start to the season, Inter’s squad is full of potential.

“There are no doubts, the squad has big margins for improvement and the January transfer market can help us to sort a few things out.

“Working hard every day, as we are doing with great care and professionalism, we can show that we are a competitive team.

“Wins bring confidence and trust, an important January is waiting for us. We will work in Marbella to be together and to improve our dynamic.”

The Nerazzurri boss believes only maximum belief will see his players stand any chance of clawing back the necessary points to secure a place in the Champions League.

“We are behind and we need to hit the ground running to recover places in the League table.

“Only by believing can we put in the máximum effort on the pitch. For us, every match will be a big occasion, we can beat anyone and with the right mentality we will see what we can do.”

Finally, Pioli wished Inter fans a successful 2017.

“I wish them the best for 2017, with the hope of a year full of successes.”
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