Walter Sabatini did not mince words towards Dusan Vlahovic for forcing his way out of Fiorentina: “It was ignoble and intolerable. You need to show gratitude towards the team that raised you. The same goes for Gianluigi Donnarumma and Milan. Basic human qualities come into play in those matters.”
Sabatini looked back at what happened with Inter in an interview with Corriere dello Sport: “It was the biggest mistake of my life. I accepted an internal request that said I was not really part of the management. I should have rescinded the contract before starting.”
The veteran director commented on his Roma stay: “I argued a lot with James Pallotta, but at least we talked. We had good seasons, and it is not a scandal to be ousted. Instead, the discussions with Luciano Spalletti were borderline insane. Sacking Rudi Garcia was my toughest decision, but it was fair and inevitable. My time with the Giallorossi was extenuating. The owner hired a personal consultant, and a serious sporting director could not accept that.”
Sabatini threw some shade at José Mourinho: “He is a successful actor at this point, while I want real football. He could tell me that he won everything and that I have not lifted any trophy. He fits a certain type of team in particular situations. Even ignoring results, he devalued the footballers. I think his conduct was very questionable and that this is a transitional season for them.”
The executive dished on the recent coaching change: “Davide Nicola is great and should be celebrated beyond the fact that he is a great coach. He could easily manage Inter. Andrea Pirlo was an option that did not gain steam, but it was not his fault. I was looking for somebody with enthusiasm while he had legitimate doubts.”