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In what has been a busy summer for Serie A club Inter Milan, arguably the most shocking transfer has been that of Samuel Eto’o to Russian Premier League side Anzhi Makhachkala. A transfer which came with a plethora of perks and financial security for the player, €27m transfer fee and the ability to cut down losses and trim the wage bracket before the Financial Fair Play regulations came into effect, it has been a great deal for Inter’s coffers. The surprise in the move was revealed by Inter manager Gian Piero Gasperini.
“We never expected such an offer for Eto’o, even amid all the soap operas of the summer, but we always remained relaxed. We were able to make up for his loss by signing some very strong players.”
The last part of Gasperini’s statement is true, for Inter have made up for the loss of their star striker, who was the club’s best player by far last season which was one of turmoil for the club, by bringing in Atletico Madrid ace Diego Forlan for €5m and Mauro Zarate on loan from Lazio. Gasperini also expressed his satisfaction with Inter Milan’s dealings overall in the transfer market, given the influx of youngsters into the club in the form of Ricardo Alvarez, Luc Castaignos, Jonathan, Andrea Poli and the permanent arrival of Yuto Nagatomo who was on loan at Inter last season.
“It was a difficult transfer market, but I am happy. The club did what was possible to give me what I wanted and I thank them for the work done”
While Samuel Eto’o spent only two seasons at Inter, his impact was huge and he is already considered a club legend by several fans. How well Inter cope with his absence with the young replacements is an interesting riddle that will answered this season. All Inter need is for manager Gasperini to be given time to work with the young players and not be sacked on account of a few setbacks by Massimo Moratti, who is known for his over-developed trigger finger, and cause another upheaval in the club.
