Ex-Inter Milan Winger Antonio Candreva: “Simone Inzaghi Deserves Contract Extension, Antonio Conte Best Coach I Played Under” | OneFootball

Former Inter Milan winger Antonio Candreva believes that Nerazzurri coach Simone Inzaghi ought to be rewarded with a new contract at the club.

Candreva announced his retirement from professional football earlier this month and was invited to appear on Italian television broadcaster Sky Sport Italia to reflect on his career, as reported by FCInterNews.it.

The former Italy international offered his thoughts on the work done by Inzaghi at Inter, having briefly played under the tactician at Lazio.

Candreva felt that the coach’s work was worthy of an extension as the Nerazzurri battle for a second league title under him and reaching the 2023 Champions League final, only to lose to Manchester City.

“It’s not up to me to judge his work, but Inzaghi has had a fantastic journey with Inter, improving the team in terms of play every year,” the 38-year-old claimed.

“He held his own against the strongest team in Europe in the Champions League final. I would extend his contract, he’s had an important journey.

“The team is strong, plays well and has all the objectives open to reach important goals.”

Having worked under current Napoli coach Antonio Conte during their joint spell at Inter from 2019 until 2021, as well as in the Italian national team from 2014 until 2016, Candreva felt he was the best coach of his career.

“Unfortunately, I had Inzaghi for a short time at Lazio, because he came in for the last four or five games,” Candreva continued.

“Between him and Conte, looking at my former coaches, I’d say the latter because I had him for longer, in the two years with the national team and at Inter.

“He will guide Napoli and ensure they don’t give up, not to look at the table and to make their own way. Napoli have had a great season. There are nine games left, everything is still to play for.”

Candreva made 151 appearances for Inter between 2016 and 2020 before moving to Sampdoria.