Moratti revels in poor display by Ibrahimovic
Massimo Moratti, president of Italian club Inter Milan, said he was pleased to see his former striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic underperform as AC Milan suffered a 2–0 defeat to Cesena on Saturday.
The game was Ibrahimovic's first for AC Milan after joining the Italians from Spanish champions FC Barcelona.
The Swede started alongside Ronaldinho Gaucho and Alexandre Pato in a star-studded attacking line-up, but failed to inspire as Milan were caught out by Cesena's clever tactics and quick attacks.
"I saw the game and it was interesting. I was curious to see it," Moratti told Inter's official website after watching his rival team suffer its first defeat of the season.
Moratti's joy was at its highest when Ibrahimovic missed a penalty in the 86th minute. "Ibrahimovic's penalty? Under a certain aspect it was the perfect day for Interisti. He hit the post, perhaps he never made a mistake, but he failed to score."
Prior to joining Barcelona last summer, Ibrahimovic spent three seasons with Inter Milan, helping the side to its first Scudetto in 17 years in the 2006-07 seasons. He went on to win two more league titles with Inter and was often praised by Moratti during his time at the club.
Inter under pressure in Europe
Inter begin their Champions League campaign against Dutch side FC Twente on Tuesday.
After collecting one goalless draw and winning narrowly against Udinese in two Serie A fixtures, Benitez will be eager for his team to win its first European game of the season.
Moratti admitted that both Benitez and his team's players will feel pressured to defend the Champions League title after the team triumphed against Bayern Munich in last year's final.
"There is a sense of responsibility without a doubt, but responsibility is a good thing. I hope my players can feel it. It's important for us to be focused on the game tomorrow night," Moratti said. "It will not be easy as Twente will be a tough place for us. But I hope my players know the importance of this clash."
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