Former Argentina international, Julio Cruz has said that he had no regret leaving Inter Milan in 2009.
Recall that the former Bologna forward left the club to join Italian giants, Inter Milan at which he won a quadruple of the Serie A title, two Italian Cups, and two Super Coppa Italian titles. After spending about six years with Nerazzuri, he left for Lazio in 2009. He bagged 75 goals in 197 appearances for the club.
The 46-year old left when the then manager, Jose Mourinho won a historic treble for the Italian-based side including the UEFA Champions League and the Serie A title.
“For sure I would have liked to have won the Champions League with the Nerazzurri, but I have no regrets,” he explained
Julio Cruz was at the pecking order when the Portuguese coach came on board in San Siro, but his teammates wanted him to stay at all costs, but he has made his decision
“Massimo Moratti wanted me to stay at all costs, but I’ve never been one who steals a living. I felt I was not at the center of Mourinho’s project and I didn’t want to collect my salary while sitting on the bench or in the stands.” He said
“I knew it wasn’t even a question of money, because with the president there was never any kind of problem. I preferred to try myself elsewhere, despite having Inter in my heart.” He added
Cruz reflected on his days as Inter during his six-year spell which he enjoyed great success.
“That locker room was made up of great men before great champions. We had common goals and we worked to help our teammates.” He said
Everyone was ready when called upon. I love so many of those guys that I remember with great affection. Who had won everything like Luis Figo managed to put themselves at the service of the team with the usual humility “.
Inter Milan and AC Milan are both occupying the first and second position respectively the former-has 15 wins, 5 draws and 2 losses-is a point ahead of the latter- which has 15 wins, 4 draw, and 3 losses, all in 22 Serie A appearances
Julio Cruz has expressed his happiness on the resurgence of both clubs to the top of Italian football, which will make the league more competitive. Unfortunately, he noted the absence of fans due to the pandemic
“It is wonderful to see that Inter and Milan have returned to the top of Italian football. As always, this will be a race that will put millions of people in front of the TV.” He said
“Too bad there will be no audience at the stadium, this is a factor that takes away the romance of the challenge, but it will still be a thrilling match. Inter can win and send the Rossoneri back even further. “
AC Milan will be locking on to league leaders Inter Milan at the San Siro stadium on a 174th Milan derby, at which Antonio Conte’s men have won 66 games against Milan, including four of their five ties with Stefano Pioli– led the side.
