Italy

Inter Director Marco Branca Dismisses Juventus Claims

Branca says the challenging remarks of Juve chief Jean-Claude Blanc sound all too familiar…

Nov 11, 2009 8:57:34 AM

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Marco Branca (Foto Grazia Neri)

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Juventus President Jean-Claude Blanc insisted yesterday that the Old Lady are not inferior to Serie A reigning champions Inter and that the Nerazzurri’s five-point lead at the top of the table is only a minor detail.

But Inter technical director Marco Branca says he can’t help but have a déjà-vu moment after listening to this.

“They are saying the things they are supposed to say,” he told La Gazzetta dello Sport.

“And they were saying the same things throughout last season…

“And I am not just referring to Juve, but also to the other contenders. The truth is that we have become a reference point for anyone. And this is very pleasing.

“And as far as our lead goes, I’d be happy to win the Scudetto by a one-point margin. One, five or ten is irrelevant.”

Many pundits in Italy are insisting that the title is Inter’s to lose, as they are still the strongest side.

“I can’t be mathematically certain of it,” mused the former striker.

“I simply know that our winning mentality has been consolidated.

“And the same goes for the desire to achieve our targets, despite five new players coming in, which is roughly the 50 per cent [of the first team].”

Inter retained the Serie A title for the fourth year running last term, with Juventus and Milan finishing 10 points adrift of Jose Mourinho's men.

Vince Masiello, Goal.com