Nicola Zanini, head coach of Dolomiti Bellunesi and a former player who featured for clubs like Napoli, Juventus, and Genoa, recently spoke on the radio program `1 Football Club`, hosted by Luca Cerchione on 1 Station Radio. Here is an excerpt from that interview.
Question: At this stage, does Inter have a chance to win the Champions League?
Answer: `Yes, I believe so. In a single match, they can certainly make an impact, as we saw in their two games against Barcelona. They`ve shown a lot in those matches. Putting club allegiances aside, it was truly a source of pride for all of Italy to see an Italian team fight, suffer, sacrifice, and play with such heart – everything that represents us. Full credit to Inter; they will definitely be contenders. They possess all the qualities needed to perform well in a one-off game, and they`ve proven it.`
Question: On a related note, we saw another outstanding performance from Nicolò Barella yesterday. We haven`t had the opportunity to assess Scott McTominay in a European setting, as Napoli didn`t participate in continental competitions. If you had to pick just one player for your team between Barella and McTominay, who would it be and why?
Answer: `They are both incredible players. However, I`d choose McTominay, particularly because of how he`s been utilized this season. Conte has found the perfect role for him, leveraging his runs into the box. He was already a strong player, but Conte has made him exceptionally effective by giving him a clear identity. He`s physically imposing, has a great sense for finding space in the area, and scores goals. They represent different player types, but perhaps McTominay is more suited to modern football right now. So, with no disrespect intended towards Barella, I would take McTominay. I admire him as a modern player who makes penetrating runs and adds excitement to the game. He`s a player who gets results, wins matches, especially against teams that sit deep. He consistently finds himself in the right position at the right time. He`s a decisive player. Of course, I say this with full respect for Barella.`
Question: In your view, would winning the Scudetto convince Conte to stay, or might it be the moment he chooses to depart?
Answer: `We`re discussing Conte, a coach who is known for moving on even after achieving success. He`s never hesitated to do so. Therefore, it`s hard to say with certainty that he will stay. I think a lot will hinge on his relationship with De Laurentiis and the plans that are put in place. His track record shows he`s left clubs even after winning, particularly when he felt he couldn`t elevate the team further. So, the crucial factor will be the club`s project and vision, not just his contract, especially as this is a team preparing for the Champions League with a new structure to build. Conte makes a strong impact organizationally in his first year, but he isn`t interested in transitional seasons. He demands certainty: about the squad, the project, everything. The decision will be very much tied to the club`s future planning.`
Question: Could the fatigue from the cup competitions affect Inter`s performance in the league, starting with their next game against Torino?
Answer: `Winning is always a positive thing; it boosts morale, improves training quality, and changes everything. However, yesterday`s match was undeniably very difficult, especially physically, with extra time leading to significant energy depletion. I anticipate the game against Torino will be quite challenging. But Inter`s primary focus will now be on the Champions League final, and they will aim to conclude the league season as strongly as possible.`
Question: As things stand, can Napoli be considered the clear favorite for the Scudetto?
Answer: `Yes, absolutely. Napoli has a challenging match away at Parma, but they would still hold the lead even with a draw. They`ve displayed remarkable mental strength; they never gave up, not even when it looked like Inter might catch them. So, full credit to Napoli – they have a well-deserved opportunity.`
Question: There`s also a fierce battle for the final Champions League spot. Who do you predict will secure it?
Answer: `The top three positions are set: Napoli, Inter, and Atalanta. For the fourth spot, I believe Juventus is capable of getting there, although they will need to fight extremely hard. Teams like Roma, Bologna, and Lazio are performing incredibly well. Roma, particularly under Ranieri, had an outstanding run. But if Juventus manages to avoid mistakes, I think they can clinch it.`
Question: And if Juventus does qualify for the Champions League, would they stick with Tudor, or do you anticipate another managerial change?
Answer: `I generally favor continuity when it`s feasible; it usually yields positive results. Of course, Juventus is a massive club with numerous internal and external image-related dynamics. However, if the team has united and the atmosphere is positive, I see no compelling reason for a change. Tudor has performed well, guiding the team towards Champions League qualification and providing stability. He might have initially arrived as a temporary solution, but he`s certainly earned the opportunity to stay.`
Question: You won the league title this year; will you remain with Dolomiti Bellunesi next season?
Answer: `We still need to have a meeting with the club management. We had agreed to discuss things once the season was over and emotions had settled. Since Sunday, we`ve been fully immersed in celebrations because this was a historic achievement. The club was only founded four years ago, and we managed to unite an entire region. Plus, with the Olympics next year… there`s a lot more to this success than meets the eye. We`re still savouring the moment. But I can reassure the fans: I`m not planning on leaving immediately. Obviously, there will be a formal meeting with the club, but for now, I`m staying here.`