Post by Taxigirl on Jan 21, 2004 9:55:25 GMT
Massimo Moratti has explained why he has decided to resign as President of Italian giants Inter.
"There is no drama," he said. "It is just a decision that was made in order for me to take a step back in order to look at things differently."
He quit last night after Sunday’s shock 1-0 home defeat to relegation strugglers Empoli, a result that left Inter eleven points adrift of Serie A leaders Roma.
The fans were furious with that latest dismal performance and prevented the team bus from leaving the San Siro.
Banners were also unfurled criticising Moratti’s many changes over the years and the increasingly likely departure of Christian Vieri.
"This step has nothing to do with what happened on Sunday," Moratti maintained. "I only saw one banner and that wasn’t even that terrible."
Moratti, who has pumped millions into the club over the last nine years with limited success, has confirmed that he will still own the outfit.
He has also made it clear that he believes Vice-president Giacinto Facchetti should succeed him as the new Inter chief.
"He is the right man for the job," added Moratti. "But the fans shouldn’t worry as the ownership of the club won’t change.
"I just hope that this decision is seen as a clear signal and that it can hopefully kick start a reaction into the whole club."
However, Moratti is not to blame for this latest Inter crisis according to Emre – the midfielder who was sent-off against Empoli on Sunday.
"I may be responsible," said the Turk. "Moratti isn’t. He’s given everything to this club.
"He’s put in money which has enabled us to construct a competitive squad. He deserved so much but we have offered him nothing. I hope he reconsiders his decision."
Ronaldo has also given his view on the situation. "I’m saddened by the news," said the former Inter hero.
"I remember when he quit five years ago after we weren’t given a penalty against Juventus. That time his love for Inter saw him return. I hope the same will happen again."