The winger spurned the advances of several top clubs to move to San Siro and pointed to his new boss as a motivating factor behind his decision
Xherdan Shaqiri has highlighted Robert Mancini as the key figure in persuading him to join Inter in a €15 million move from Bayern Munich.
The Switzerland midfielder completed his move to San Siro on an initial six-month loan deal on Friday, which will see him sign a four-and-a-half-year contract in the summer.
Shaqiri had previously been linked with transfers to Premier League sides Liverpool and Stoke City but only ever had his eyes on one club once he had spoken to Mancini.
“I had other offers, but my choice was always clear,” Shaqiri said. “The coach showed me his project, I was convinced by his words and now I want to help the club return to the highest levels.
“In spite of other offers, I always wanted Inter. I was very struck by the tifosi [fans] when I landed. It was a unique experience and I will never forget it.
“Taking great steps together with this coach and my team-mates is a beautiful experience.”
The former Basel man also confirmed reports that Serie A leaders and defending champions Juventus were interested in signing him.
“I’m hungry for victories and I want them to be with Inter,” he added. “My first impression is excellent, I’m sure we’ll go back to the highest levels.
“Reading the papers it looks like I’ve been in contact with a whole lot of teams. My brother [and agent] was at work and Juventus was one of the options too, but I only wanted Inter.
“I can’t wait to play and I think third place is within our grasp. We picked up some points over the weekend and I’m sure we’ll be able to fly high again.”
Shaqiri was on the bench in Sunday’s 3-1 win over Genoa and could make his debut this weekend as Inter head to Empoli.