OMNISPORT

Inter captain Mauro Icardi commended the positive impact Stefano Pioli has had on the club's players following three "unbearable" months under Frank de Boer.

The Dutchman arrived as Roberto Mancini's replacement on August 9 after impressing during his six years in charge of Ajax and he received great backing in the transfer market.

Joao Mario and Gabriel Barbosa joined from Sporting Lisbon and Santos, respectively, with big reputations, but both have so far struggled to justify Inter's outlay.

De Boer was dismissed on November 1 after four defeats in five Serie A matches and Icardi is certain that move has benefited Inter, who appointed Pioli a week later, with the Nerazzurri up to seventh after five wins in seven games.

"The situation with De Boer had become unbearable," the Argentina international told Gazzetta dello Sport.

"The players who were not used were really unhappy and did not attend with as much desire, even during the celebrations.

"Now with Pioli the air has changed; even those who do not play feel involved in the project and are pleased to be part of the group.

"He changed the mentality of Inter, has restored confidence to everyone, including those who rarely played with De Boer, even if they continue to not play much.

"Now we really feel like we are all in the same boat and everyone is ready to fight for the cause of Inter."

Although Icardi has become a key figure at Inter, as evidenced by his 16 goals in 23 matches in all competitions this season, he has enjoyed little success in his three-and-a-half years in San Siro.

But in Icardi Inter have a striker full of ambition, with the former Barcelona youngster eying multiple Serie A titles and the Champions League in the next 10 years.

"I really hope to be able to lift many trophies with Inter," he added. "I also hope to do so in less than 10 years.

"When I decided to come to Inter I did so because I wanted to win so much and with this shirt. So yes, I see myself with some league titles and at least one Champions League."