Inter coach Roberto Mancini has admitted the club had no choice but to sell key midfielder Mateo Kovacic due to Financial Fair Play Regulations imposed by UEFA, and has revealed he holds a great deal of sorrow for the affair.
The Croatian international’s future at the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza looked uncertain throughout the summer with speculation of a possible switch to English side Liverpool, however, he is now set to join Real Madrid in a shock move worth nearly €40 million.
“None of us wanted this, but something had to be done in order to comply with UEFA and their rules,” Mancini told reporters following Inter’s 0-0 friendly draw against Greek side AEK Athens.
“What can you do? There are rules to be followed.
“Both [Xherdan] Shaqiri and Kovacic have left because of financial fair play.
“Hopefully we can get some new players in during the remainder of the transfer window.
“We are all very sorry to see him leave though we have a team that will continue to fight even without him.”
