How Inter Milan’s “Seven Loyal Warriors” Could Shape the Summer Window and Boost Efficiency Fourfold

The front page of La Gazzetta dello Sport boldly declared, “Inzaghi Wants It All.” From goalkeeping options like Bento to forwards such as Zirkzee and Gudmundsson, the Italian media has linked Inter Milan with a plethora of high-priced and high-wage transfer targets. Whether the club has the financial capacity to secure all these players is another matter. Inter’s transfer strategy has always involved casting a wide net, leading to a flurry of rumors during the planning stages. However, given Inter's financial situation and zero-budget policy, the club will likely adhere to a “sell before buying” approach this summer. Thus, while some rumors may hold water, others should be taken with a grain of salt.

One often-overlooked but significant aspect of Inter’s strategy is their intention to expand their “Loyal Warriors” group. These are players who have been ardent Inter fans since their youth, demonstrating a strong sense of belonging and long-term devotion to the club. Examples include Lautaro Martinez, whose dedication to the club is unquestioned. However, when the media refers to “Loyal Warriors,” they specifically mean those who have been Inter supporters since their childhood.

Currently, Inter’s first team boasts seven such players: Federico Dimarco, Nicolò Barella, Alessandro Bastoni, Matteo Darmian, Kristjan Asllani, Filippo De Genarro, and Davide Frattesi. Stories of their devotion to Inter have been well-documented. For instance, Dimarco, known as the “fruit shop assistant,” insisted on wearing Inter jerseys during his childhood games. Asllani, who grew up in Tuscany, was influenced by his family to become an Inter fan and viewed San Siro as a “sacred place.” Darmian, once touted as the “new Maldini” during his time at AC Milan’s youth academy, was always an Inter fan at heart.

Does this sense of belonging benefit the team? Absolutely. Compared to last season, Inter’s performance has significantly improved, one key reason being increased unity. Last season’s Inter occasionally showed signs of discord, such as players intentionally getting sent off, frequent hand gestures of frustration, internal arguments, and even Lukaku’s refusal to answer the manager’s calls, which disrupted transfer plans and may have contributed to locker room tensions. This season, however, Inter has maintained an exceptionally harmonious and optimistic atmosphere, arguably the most united and positive Inter team seen in years, comparable even to the treble-winning squad. The improved league performance underscores the adage, “Those who share the same desire will succeed.”

What has enhanced the team’s unity? Many factors are at play, with a change in leadership being significant. This includes not only Lautaro Martinez but also vice-captains Barella and Bastoni, highlighting the value of the “Loyal Warriors.” A sense of belonging can indeed be a powerful force. Take Davide Frattesi as an example. Although he started his career in Roma’s youth system, his coach Antonio Tesoro revealed, “Even while playing for Roma, he always supported Inter. Whenever we discussed football, he would always talk about Inter.” According to Tesoro, Frattesi’s affection for Inter was as strong as his loyalty to his then-club Roma. When Roma sold him, his gratitude towards the club diminished significantly. During the 2023 bidding war between Roma and Inter for his services, Frattesi chose Inter without hesitation, stating, “I will always be grateful to Roma, but when Inter’s offer came, the decision was easy.”

La Gazzetta dello Sport views Frattesi and Dimarco as fundamentally similar: both have been ardent Inter fans since their youth. Although Frattesi’s role this season has been debated, his passion, dedication, and performance for Inter are undeniable. Sky Sports noted that last season, Frattesi scored seven goals in 2,969 minutes, averaging a goal every 424 minutes, earning widespread praise. This season at Inter, he has scored seven goals and provided five assists in just 1,306 minutes, averaging a goal contribution every 108.8 minutes—an efficiency four times higher. This improvement is driven by his stronger motivation, passion, and hunger when playing for Inter. Does this relate to his “Loyal Warrior” mentality? Opinions may vary, but young, improving, and committed players with a strong sense of belonging are invaluable to Inter.

The Italian media suggests that Inter hopes to elevate Frattesi’s status within the team next season, similar to the elevation of Bastoni and Dimarco in previous seasons. This summer, Inter might continue to expand their “Loyal Warriors” squad. Club president Steven Zhang has repeatedly stated, “Inter will only build long-term plans around those willing to give their all for the club.” Sporting director Piero Ausilio recently echoed this sentiment, saying, “If Inter can have more players like Dimarco, who return from loans with a strong sense of belonging, it will bring great joy and satisfaction.”

Who might join this group? There are several candidates, such as youth player Valentin Carboni, who is confirmed to return from his loan spell at Monza. Others include long-time Inter fans who could bolster the squad’s sense of belonging. While some view football as a transactional relationship between club owners and players, Inter values the players' sense of belonging, showing that football is more than just a cold business. Passionate commitment is also a crucial force.

This summer, Inter's transfer strategy will likely include adding more “Loyal Warriors,” players whose dedication and connection to the club go beyond mere professionalism. This approach has already yielded positive results, contributing to the team's cohesion and performance. Expanding this group could further enhance the squad's unity and drive, providing a solid foundation for future success.

The stories of Inter's “Loyal Warriors” reflect the club's commitment to fostering a strong sense of identity and belonging among its players. Federico Dimarco’s insistence on wearing Inter jerseys as a child, Kristjan Asllani’s view of San Siro as a sacred place, and Matteo Darmian’s lifelong support for Inter despite his early years at AC Milan, all exemplify this ethos. Davide Frattesi’s passion and improved performance since joining Inter highlight the benefits of having players who are deeply connected to the club.

As Inter navigates the upcoming transfer window, maintaining this sense of belonging will be crucial. Expanding the “Loyal Warriors” group will not only strengthen the squad but also reinforce the values and spirit that define Inter Milan. In a sport often dominated by financial considerations, Inter’s emphasis on loyalty and passion sets them apart, ensuring that the club’s heart and soul remain intact amidst the ever-changing landscape of modern football.