Inter to Honor New "Zanetti" in Management: Time to Set the Record Straight on the Legend

In recent days, rumors of a member of the Riyadh royal family expressing interest in purchasing Inter Milan have been widely circulated. Many fans are intrigued. As commentator Altobelli mentioned, believing that such a deal could be finalized by May 20th, when the potential buyers have yet to conduct due diligence or take any concrete action, is difficult. The current buzz is primarily because fans are desperate for such news. Modern media thrives on audience demand, producing content regardless of its authenticity or exaggeration. According to Sky Sports, Steven Zhang is more likely to retain ownership through refinancing rather than selling to a Saudi royal family member. If a purchase happens, it will be in the future. For now, let's focus on tonight's match.

Before the game against Cagliari, Inter will host two award ceremonies. Alessandro Bastoni will receive the Serie A Player of the Month award for March, and former captain Samir Handanović will be honored with a commemorative jersey and medal to mark his 455 appearances for Inter. Handanović's award signifies a potential shift in his role within Inter's management.

Since retiring, Handanović has been involved in various roles at Inter. According to Gazzetta dello Sport, his first post-retirement task was as a scout, primarily monitoring Inter’s loaned-out players like Martín Satriano. He then transitioned to scouting for next season’s backup goalkeeper and new defenders while also acting as a brand ambassador at some commercial events.

Next, Handanović is expected to take on the role of the U19 team coach, replacing Cristian Chivu, who will seek opportunities to manage a senior team after this season. However, whether Handanović will remain in this role long-term is uncertain. He might only temporarily coach the U19s before continuing his path towards becoming a scout or manager. In essence, Handanović’s role at Inter mirrors that of Javier Zanetti in recent years: a versatile asset.

But what is the true value of such a versatile asset? Some experts, while commenting on AC Milan legend Paolo Maldini’s departure, have compared Zanetti’s role at Inter. They argue that Maldini had every right to leave if he couldn’t hold significant power, questioning the worth of Zanetti’s vice-president position at Inter, which they likened to a mascot role.

Supporting Maldini is fair, but discrediting Zanetti is unjust. It is clear that Zanetti does not wield extensive power at Inter. However, assuming that only those in power can contribute meaningfully to their beloved club is erroneous. Zanetti has significantly contributed to Inter over the years. Besides his crucial role in Lautaro Martínez's transfer and helping secure sponsorship deals, Zanetti aided in establishing the women's team and opening numerous football academies worldwide. Since Zanetti took over Inter’s external relations, the club has not faced any troubles from UEFA or FIFA.

One of Inter’s fastest-growing areas in recent years has been merchandise sales (from €4 million per season two years ago to a projected €24 million this year) and social media presence (catching up with AC Milan from a significant lag five years ago). Zanetti’s contributions in these areas have been vital. As Zanetti aptly put it at a recent event: "Sport needs to convey correct values. Inter is a well-functioning machine. If everyone actively and positively does their part, things will progress positively." Zanetti might not be an executive with absolute power, but he has always been productive. Over the years, his diligence and positive efforts have accumulated substantial contributions. Even in his post-retirement executive role, Zanetti remains a key contributor to Inter's success.

Every organization can only have one or two executives with absolute power. If other employees adopt the mindset of "I can’t work unless I’m in complete control," the organization cannot progress. Hopefully, Handanović can emulate Zanetti, starting as a versatile asset and making significant contributions to the club. After all, today’s versatile asset could become a future executive.

Current sporting director Piero Ausilio also started his career as a versatile asset in Inter's youth teams, Sesto, and Spezia before rising to his current position of influence and importance in Inter and Serie A. For those who are determined and capable, everything is possible.