Inter Milan President Responds To Antonio Conte Over Derby Controversy: “Penalty On Dumfries Was Unquestionable” | OneFootball

Inter Milan president Beppe Marotta hit back at Napoli manager Antonio Conte over Sunday’s Serie A derby controversy.

Among numerous topics Marotta discussed during his interview with FCInterNews was an enthralling top-four race in Italy’s top flight.

Only one point separates the top-five teams in Serie A going into November’s international break.

Napoli lead the way with 26 points. However, they’re only one clear of second-placed Atalanta.

Inter, Fiorentina, and Lazio are level on points with Gian Piero Gasperini’s side, with Juventus sitting sixth with 24.

“If I have to analyze the outstanding performances, definitely Atalanta, Fiorentina, and Lazio,” Marotta praised his rivals.

“It’s been a while since they reached these levels, and they certainly deserve it.”

He also denied speculation Inter are more focused on achieving UEFA Champions League glory.

Instead, he insists Simone Inzaghi’s men are eager to win everything.

“I believe a great team must respond to every competition. There is no distinction between the league and the Champions League.

“We want to be protagonists until the end, but it will also depend on our opponents and what we can prove.”

Inter Milan President Beppe Marotta Responds to Antonio Conte Over Derby Controversy

Referee Maurizio Mariani awarded Inter a controversial second-half penalty in Sunday’s 1-1 draw.

However, his decision left Conte fuming as the Napoli boss threw a wave of criticism at match officials after the game.

“Conte is an intelligent person and a great communicator. He has his own objective when he speaks,” Beppe Marotta maintained.

“The referee was very close to the action, there was definitely contact, the foot was moved, and therefore it was a penalty.

“If Conte wanted to shift the focus? I don’t know, but I believe it was an incident that wasn’t even decisive, unfortunately.

“The debate about the VAR protocol is a constructive one. With technology, mistakes have decreased.

“And in this case, the penalty was indisputable.”

Marotta then commented on Inter’s overall performance this season.

“Our performances in the Champions League seem quite respectable. In the league, we are just one point from the top.

“Last year, we were the hunters, and Juventus was the hare, now Napoli is ahead.

“What changes compared to last year is that there is a group of teams that rightfully occupy the top spots.

“It’s still a long way to go, there are many games and points to be played for, so it’s crucial to stay close to the top.

“Then January and February will be the decisive months.”