Even though Inter’s recent “casting call” to replace Frank De Boer resulted in the Nerazzurri hiring Stefano Pioli, they had also considered other names, including those of ex-Villareal man Marcelino, and of Chelsea and Parma legend Gianfranco Zola.
The former Chelsea striker confirmed as much to Sky Italia recently, saying that he was “close to joining Inter”.
“It’s a bench everybody wants to go for, because Inter are an important team, “the other Coaches who interviewed were all very good.
“It was an honour to be contacted, I entertained the notion for a moment”.
Zola led West Ham to an entertaining 2008-2009 season, where they finished ninth.
Later taking over at Watford, he took the Championship side to the 2012-2013 Playoff final, only to lose a close game in extra time 1-0 to Crystal Palace.
“Now Inter have Stefano Pioli, who is very competent, I hope he does well”, Zola concluded.
@EdoDalmonte
