Antonio Conte: “Easier To Move The Duomo Than Bring Lionel Messi To Inter” | OneFootball

Inter manager Conte has shared his belief that it would be easier for Milan’s famous Duomo Cathedral to be moved than it would be for Inter to sign Barcelona’s Lionel Messi following his side’s 2-0 win over Napoli.

“I have certainly seen interesting things because we faced a strong team, who in recent years has been the only one to bother Juventus,” he began an interview with Italian broadcaster Sky Sport Italia following the full time whistle at San Siro.

“Credit to us for the excellent performance and it was not easy after Atalanta had won at Parma, as we were in a certain sense forced to win our game.

“These are important situations, because being in front – even if it’s for second place and someone else won the Scudetto – we need to get used to feeling the pressure of teams pushing up behind us.

“We faced this match as a solid team and I am really happy for the lads.”

He then went on to explain why he made the changes he made for this match and the previous match, the 3-0 triumph over Genoa.

“The choice of the line-ups against Genoa and today was done with some calculations to ensure we’d have an extra day of rest for some players. We then have another four days and the Europa League.”

He proceeded to look ahead to the match against the Bergamo based club, who are currently sitting directly behind them in third place.

“Atalanta have done great work over the last few years with Gian Piero Gasperini, growing season by season, bringing in players suited to the project who can change the game at any moment, in Serie A or the Champions League.

“It’ll be a good test for us to see where we stand right now and I think it’s an excellent match to end the Serie A season on.”

The 50-year-old, who formerly managed the Italian national team, then went on to admit he is aware of what happens when he arrives at clubs and discussed the way he talks in interviews.

“The problem is that I can’t be the one describing the history of Inter. That’s what you journalists and pundits are for, to see the figures and explain the work that has been done.

“I also realise that my presence creates high expectations and that can affect the way some results are viewed. People might think that the moment I arrive, what I touch turns to gold. It happened in the past, but that doesn’t mean it always will.

“I believe I’m very honest when I speak and at times that can irritate people. I understand that attacking me brings notoriety to some who seek the spotlight and I hear things said about my work that offend my professionalism. I can make mistakes, but I will always have passion and try to accelerate situations I am called into.

“When people lie or try to frame things in a certain way, that is damaging to everyone.”

In conclusion he was asked whether he would rather see the club sign Barcelona captain Lionel Messi or four players worth €50 million each.

“I think both of these scenarios are pretty improbable. I am holding on tight to my players, as they are giving their all, I can guarantee that. It’d be easier to move the Duomo than to bring Messi to Inter.”