Inter's pre - season in Lugano: Comments from Antonello and Marotta

LUGANO - Inter will complete the first phrase of their pre-season preparations in Lugano, training at the Cornaredo stadium from 8th to 14th July. The sessions will be behind closed doors, although fans will have a chance to watch the team at 17:00 CEST on Sunday 14 July, as Inter take on Lugano in the Casinò di Lugano Cup (tickets here).

Both Corporate CEO Alessandro Antonello and Sport CEO Giuseppe Marotta were present at the press conference to present the Nerazzurri’s training camp in Lugano.

“The link between FC Internazionale Milano and Lugano is deep and one that started a long time ago,” said Alessandro Antonello. “You just need to look at the badges, or think about our foundation years – 1908 for both clubs. In preparing for next season, we wanted a place that could welcome our club and provide us with the best sporting facilities, as well opportunities for entertainment and business. Lugano is the right city: not only will we be training but we’ll also have the chance to invite our partners. They’ll get to discover this location from a tourist's perspective and they’ll also be sure to explore the economic potential."

“Obviously, the sporting part always takes centre stage,” Antonello continued. “We felt right at home here straight away, with the support of all the surrounding institutions. It will be a long and important season and we’re convinced that we’ve made the right decision in building from Lugano. Our President Steven Zhang is also very happy with this decision.”

Meanwhile, Sport CEO Giuseppe Marotta said: “Personally, it’s a source of great pride to start this new season in Lugano. A city and a team that I’m very close to, both for geographical and sporting reasons – the latter linked to the start of my career. Lugano is an organisation of sporting and commercial excellence. There’s a synergy between the two clubs and we’re happy to stand alongside FC Lugano. We’re working to take Inter back to where it belongs. Our season is starting in a place adapted to these objectives. Everyone is giving us confidence here. I’m pleased that football will once again be acting a social bridge, building a real connection between the cities of Milan and Lugano. This week of pre-season preparation will trace a journey that awaits us: a path that started with the arrival of Antonio Conte and we’re sure that it’ll be filled with success thanks to the work of everyone at the club.”

As for Lugano Mayor Marco Borradori, he added: “There are all the conditions to enjoy yourself and relax in our city. We’ve hosted the Switzerland National Team on many occasions and also that of Sweden. It’ll be an important opportunity to meet the Inter partners.”