Ex Chelsea & Roma Coach Recalls His Time At Inter Milan: “Wonderful Experience, Thiago Motta’s Departure Ruined Our Plans” | OneFootball

Cagliari coach Claudio Ranieri looked back on his time at Inter Milan ahead of the two clubs’ meeting on Sunday night.

The 72-year-old managed a host of clubs during his illustrious career. This includes tenures at Chelsea, Roma, Juventus, and his most famous stint of all, Leicester City.

“The Tinkerman” also had a spell with the Nerazzurri, albeit a brief one. He took charge of the club in September 2011 following the sacking of Gian Piero Gasperini.

Ranieri initially found some success at Appiano Gentile, but the results declined as the season progressed.

The management eventually wielded the axe in March 2012, replacing him with Andrea Stramaccioni.

Nevertheless, the Italian manager still cherishes the experience, while explaining that things only went south when Thiago Motta decided to leave the club.

“My experience with the Nerazzurri was beautiful. Truly wonderful,” said Ranieri in his pre-match press conference via FcInterNews.

“I took a team that wasn’t in good shape, we recovered and were close to Champions League qualification.

“But then, Thiago Motta wanted to leave at all costs and join PSG.

Claudio Ranieri Reveals How The Departure Of Thiago Motta Hindered His Inter Milan Stint

“I had created a well-oiled machine, Motta’s departure ruined it all.

“So as you can see, it wasn’t my fault but Thiago’s. So please, write it down. but in a nice manner, eh”, he said jokingly.

“Thiago Motta was a wonderful player who made the team work perfectly.”

Ranieri is currently finding success in his second spell at Cagliari. He led the club towards a dramatic Serie A promotion last season at the expense of Bari.

The Sardinians now sit 13th in the table, four points above the relegation zone.