Aleksandar Stankovic says returning to Inter this summer fulfilled the ambition that first inspired him to become a footballer, describing the moment as “something incredible”.
The midfielder came back to the Nerazzurri after loan spells with Lucerne and Club Brugge, with Inter exercising a buy-back clause to bring him back to Milan. Stankovic, whose father Dejan is an Inter legend, said playing for the club had been his dream since childhood.
“For me it was something incredible, the reason I started playing football was because I wanted to play here. So for me it was pure emotion. It doesn’t matter the place, when it comes to Inter I would go anywhere.”
Stankovic spoke about the powerful link between his family and the club, recalling how he was introduced to Inter from the moment he was born.
“Well, ever since I was a child, literally since I was born, they put an Inter shirt on me. So for me it was incredible to see San Siro, Inter, the fans, because when you’re little you don’t really realise who your father is, but once you start growing up you start to understand who your father is and what Inter means to the people of Milan and around the world.
“So as far as I’m concerned, I’m very happy and proud to have been born an Inter fan, and I’ll always be grateful to my father.”
The 20-year-old’s route back to Inter included an initial loan at Lucerne before he moved to Club Brugge. He admitted that leaving Milan had been emotionally difficult, but said the Belgian club provided an important environment for his development.
“Honestly, it wasn’t easy. It was very difficult to accept having to leave home, family, the club you love, friends and everything else. But then you understand it’s because you want to come back here and play for this club. Club Brugge, though, I think for a young player, honestly, is one of the best clubs in the world because the opportunities they give you to improve are incredible. I think it was the best step I could have taken in my career.”
Stankovic is also reunited with Cristian Chivu, who coached him at Inter’s Primavera level three years ago and has since taken charge of the first team. The midfielder believes their previous experience together means the manager already understands his qualities and responsibilities.
“Chivu has known me since I was a child. We had two great seasons together and now we’re back together, I think he knows me very well. He knows my playing style, my role and everything else.”
Asked about his aims for the season, Stankovic offered a concise answer focused on collective success rather than individual targets.
“Win as much as possible with Inter.”
