Marotta: ‘I’d be even more p***ed off if Paratici joined Milan’, my influence an ‘urban legend’ | OneFootball

Inter president Giuseppe Marotta dismissed suggestions that he influenced Milan’s decision to drop Fabio Paratici as an ‘urban legend’, claiming he would be ‘even more pissed off’ if the former Juventus director joined the Rossoneri.

Milan’s search for a new sporting director has recently taken an unexpected turn, as the club decided not to move forward with negotiations with the 52-year-old, despite having held talks and reportedly identified him as the leading candidate for the role, amid concerns over the legal proceedings he is currently involved in.

VERONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08:Fabio Paratici of Juventus looks on during the Serie A match between Hellas Verona and Juventus at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on February 8, 2020 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

The Rossoneri’s sudden backtrack sparked questions and speculation, including claims of ‘strong pressure at a federal level’ that may have prompted them to end their pursuit of Paratici. Among the rumours was also a possible interference from Marotta himself, who expressed surprise at such speculation.

Marotta questions claims of influence over Milan’s Paratici decision

“This is another Milanese urban legend,” Marotta said during an event called Il Foglio a San Siro.

“I don’t know if there’s such a thing as a ‘white knight,’ a metaphor often used in finance. How could it be imagined that I could have influenced the owner, the president, or the CEO of Milan? These are all people with expertise who don’t wait for my suggestions.

“Even if I wanted to, what could I have done? Personally, if Paratici were to become Milan’s sporting director, I would be even happier, because it would give me more motivation, and I’d be even more p***ed off.”

Giuseppe Marotta, CEO for sport of Inter Milan, during the friendly game soccer match between FC Lugano and FC Internazionale Milano, in Lugano, Switzerland, 12 July 2022,. EPA-EFE/Alessandro Crinari

Marotta’s words also hint at his relationship with Paratici, which is said to have deteriorated during the final season of their collaboration at Juventus — reportedly one of the reasons why the current Inter vice president chose to leave the club.