Ex West Ham United Veteran ‘Thrilled’ To Break Serie A Duck In Inter Milan 2-1 Fiorentina Win – Adds Reason For Substitution ‘Just Cramps’ | OneFootball

Marko Arnautovic is “thrilled” to have scored his first Serie A goal of the season in Inter Milan’s 2-1 win over Fiorentina.

The Austrian international spoke to Italian broadcaster DAZN, via FCInterNews, after the match. He added that the reason for his substitution was “just cramps.”

Prior to this evening, Inter striker Marko Arnautovic had not yet scored in Serie A.

The 35-year-old has been a backup option this season. He has largely just come off the bench to give the likes of Lautaro Martinez and Marcus Thuram a rest here and there.

Arnautovic had scored in the Champions League. But never in the league.

However, Arnautovic got his chance this evening against Fiorentina.

Marcus Thuram had to come off due to an injury.

Therefore, it was Arnautovic who took the Frenchman’s place from the bench.

And in the second half, the former West Ham United and Bologna striker proved decisive. He headed home from a cross by Carlos Augusto to make the score 2-1 and give Inter the win.

Marko Arnautovic “Thrilled” To Break Serie A Duck In Inter 2-1 Fiorentina Clash

“I had a lot of desire,” Arnautovic said of his hunger to score a Serie A goal this season. “And my teammates are happy as well.”

“It was a tough period because even when I played, I didn’t score.”

VERONA, ITALY – NOVEMBER 23: Marko Arnautovic of FC Internazionale during the Serie A match between Verona and FC Internazionale at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on November 23, 2024 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

Arnautovic noted that “I missed a lot of chances.”

“Finally, one went in, thanks to the assist from Carlos,” the Austrian international said. “I’m thrilled.”

“For someone like me who’s always on the bench and makes sacrifices in training during the pitch, proving myself on the pitch when we play is important,” Arnautovic continued.

The 35-year-old noted that “Today we got the three points.”

“We got closer to Napoli in the table. But there’s still a very long way to go.”

And of his second half substitution – having himself come on as a substitute – Arnautovic admitted that “This is why I don’t play much.”

“When I come on without much of a chance to warm up, I can get some physical problems.”

“I was feeling some cramps, let’s say,” added Arnautovic.

“But I don’t think it’s anything serious. I think I’ll be available against Juventus.”