Inter captain Javier Zanetti has revealed that he still plans to continue playing once his injury is fully healed and believes that Jose Mourinho will always be a part of the club.
The 40-year-old, who’s been with the Nerazzurri 1995, injured his Achilles tendon last season and is hopeful on returning to the pitch sometime this fall, despite rumours of a forced retirement due to such an injury at his age.
Zanetti spoke to Sport/Voetbalmagazine about and conceded that he’s had no thoughts of ending his football career just yet.
“Did I think to stop playing? Not at all,” said the veteran midfielder.
“I knew immediately that it was my Achilles tendon, but the first thing I thought was that if I work the next day, I could return to the field by October.”
The Argentine has received support from many fans and players alike, including former AC Milan player and rival David Beckham.
“I played against him often, but we were never friends,” he continued.
“He sent me a text message and told me not to worry because he had the same injury. He said that I’ll return stronger than before.”
Zanetti then commented on former Inter coach Jose Mourinho and conceded that he thinks the tactician could return to the Italian side in the future.
“I’ve also heard from Jose Mourinho, but that has not been a surprise.
“In reality, he is still part of our club. I think sooner or later he will come back, although it will probably be when I’m no longer on the pitch.”
