Inter Milan’s Brazilian defender Maicon won’t be leaving the Nerazzurri after all. The 29 year old has been the subject of intense interest this summer after impressing towards the latter stages of last season and during the world cup.
Inter Milan president Massimo Moratti confirmed this while speaking to Italian daily Corrie Dello Sport. This is definitely good news for all Inter fans as Maicon was and still remains one of the club’s most lethal players. His attacking abilities sets him apart from many conventional defenders.
Former Inter coach Jose Mourinho was so impressed with Maicon that he singled him out as one of his major signing when he took over as Madrid coach.
According to Moratti, Real did not try hard enough to sign Maicon. To be honest, i agree with that statement. Maicon had already expressed his desire to join Madrid and all tha was left was for a transfer fee to be agreed on.
After an initial agreement on a 35 million Euro transfer fee, Madrid backtracked to settle on 26 million a fee categorically denied by Inter.
“I can confirm that Maicon is not transferable. If Real Madrid really wanted him, they should have tried harder,” Moratti was quoted as saying by Corriere dello Sport.
“We’re not letting go of him, because he’s a very strong player. He has a great understanding with our fans and it would have been very difficult to part company with him. Maybe Real Madrid didn’t really understand how important Maicon is.”
Mario Balotelli is another star who is yet to conclude his transfer and by the look of things, he might remain at the San Siro if prolonged talks between Inter and Manchester City fail to bear fruit.
Inter coach Rafa Benitez has also stated that he would like Maicon to stay.
“Certainly. He is an important player for us and you can tell that on the field.
“Last season, he did great work for the team and he has remarkable attacking qualities. As a coach, I want him in my squad.”
Inter fans can at least breathe a sigh of relief as Maicon is staying, however, how long can Inter hold on?
Photo credit: from ahmed khatam – interisti
