Simone Inzaghi was named Coach of the Year at the Gran Galà del Calcio this evening and committed his future to Inter. ‘I hope to remain here for a long time.’
The ceremony is the Italian version of the PFA Awards, with the votes coming from the members of the Italian Players’ Association (AIC).
As expected after dominating the Scudetto race last term, Inter also featured heavily in the nominees and winners this evening.
With little surprise, Inzaghi was named Coach of the Year, although Gian Piero Gasperini was a contender after taking Atalanta to the Europa League triumph, while Thiago Motta was nominated for his Bologna exploits before coming to Juventus.
Inzaghi wins Serie A Coach of the Year
“Of course, I am very happy to receive this award, especially getting it from Luciano,” said Inzaghi after it was presented to him by Italy coach Spalletti.
“I want to first of all share this award with my players, as it would not be possible without them. I also share it with my club, which ensured we had everything needed at our disposal, and to the fans who always support us.”
Few coaches rotate the squad better than Inzaghi, who also currently has Inter second in the Champions League table and still unbeaten.
“There are instruments we use to check the physical fitness and how much each player has run. There are many games, all close together, so we try to adapt to this situation.”
Inzaghi has been linked with a potential Premier League move in recent months and was reportedly approached by Manchester United last year.
Does he feel that he has been under-estimated as a coach in Italy?
“I feel very much appreciated by Inter and I was at Lazio too, a club that was my life for 20 years as player and coach. I am very happy at Inter and hope to remain for a long time.
“We coaches know that we are judged on a daily basis and with every decision that we make.”
When it comes to his knowledge of the game, Simone Inzaghi admits having an older brother in the sport like Pippo helped.
“From an early age, me and Filippo had the Gazzetta dello Sport in our hands.”
