Italian Journalist Declares: ‘First Moves Of Oaktree Capital At Inter Milan Confirm They Want To Stay Competitive’ | OneFootball

Italian journalist Giovanni Capuano feels that Oaktree Capital are showing that they aim to keep Inter Milan competitive.

Writing for Panorama, via FCInter1908, the journalist analyzed the first few moves of the US-based fund as Nerazzurri owners.

It has now been more than a month since Oaktree took over at the helm of Inter.

The US fund have had their executive structure in place since the start of June.

And Oaktree’s plans and strategy have become clear to see. There is every indication that they are in it for the long haul, contrary to rumours that they would aim to sell Inter right away.

Capuano: “Oaktree Confirming They Want To Keep Inter Milan Competitive”

And in the view of Capuano, it is clear from how Oaktree have begun their time in charge of Inter that they are not going to run the club in a spendthrift manner.

“Oaktree’s first moves at the helm confirm what the fund’s directors said when they took over from Suning,” he writes.

“The focus of the first phase under American ownership remains keeping the team competitive.”

“Because sporting results are considered essential to keep revenues high. And, therefore, to keep on the path towards a balanced budget.”

“The season is done, including the fiscal year,” Capuano notes. “Without Oaktree asking Marotta and Ausilio to do some transfer business to bring in capital gains to reduce the deficit.”

“That is expected to be €40-50 million.”

“The fund will take care of it,” he notes. “And provide for whatever is needed.”

“Unlike what happen in Zhang’s final few seasons.”

“It’s clear that there won’t be any crazy spending,” Capuano then notes. “And that the transfer window will have to be be net zero.”

“That has been the case since 2021. But now, it causes less anxiety for the Nerazzurri directors.”

Capuano notes that “The diktat is still lowering the overall cost of the team.”

“In terms of wages and amortizaion. Including with respect to UEFA rules and avoiding sanctions.”

“On the commercial side, they’ve just signed a big money shirt deal with Betsson. That will guarantee around €130 million until 2029.

“This, along with other developments, could naturally lead to a balanced budget as early as 2024-25.”

“In the background,” Capuano writes, “is the €415 million bond.”

“That has interest of just under 30% per year.”

“Without this,” he furthermore notes. “Inter’s accounts would already be balanced today.”