Mazzarri: Genoa more important than Eto'o

Ahead of his side’s opening clash against Genoa, the Nerazzurri coach has quelled rumours linking the Cameroon international with the club

Inter coach Walter Mazzarri says he is not interested in rumours linking the club with Samuel Eto’o and would rather concentrate on the Nerazzurri’s opening clash with Genoa on Sunday.

The Cameroon international’s time at Anzhi Makhachkala looks to be over following owner Suleiman Kerimov’s decision to pull the plug on his huge financial project at the Russian club.

Eto’o, who won the treble with Inter in 2010, has also been linked with a move to Chelsea where former coach Jose Mourinho is currently plying his trade, but Mazzarri says he is not interested in the speculation.

“I am not interested in what is being said, I just want to focus on tomorrow’s game against Genoa. Eto’o? I won’t speak about the transfer market,” he told reporters.

Inter have went through a transformation period over the summer with a number of players leaving San Siro while Mauro Icardi, Ishak Belfodil and Mauro Campagnaro among others have arrived.

Mazzarri has warned supporters, though, that it will take time for his young side to gel.

“I have been in Serie A for 10 years and know the game. Everyone talks about objectives, but instead I get down to work and try to ignore the rest,” he added.

“Everyone is aware we are starting from scratch. The team is younger and some arrived later than others, so the only thing I can say is that we need time. The fans know that too.

“It is important to start well, because that creates enthusiasm and lifts morale. The fans should come to the stadium with the right attitude and our players must be encouraged for 95 minutes. If he is jeered or feels the lack of confidence, he’s more likely to make mistakes.”

Mazzarri has a depleted squad to face Genoa with Walter Samuel, Cristian Chivu, Javier Zanetti and Diego Milito all absentees, while the former Napoli coach has concerns over others.

 “I need to find out how much Mateo Kovacic can play in his current condition, as he’s the only doubt I have,” he continued.

“Icardi told me he’s not 100 per cent either, but he is at our disposal. Am I happy with the squad I have? I don’t want to get into that. The club knows perfectly well what is needed and what isn’t. The rest isn’t up to me.”

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