Cuper slams Ronaldo departure

The Argentinian coach was surprised to hear reports that Samba star Ronaldo had said his relationship with Cuper was among the reasons for his decision to move to Real Madrid, saying he had always said he was happy at the club.

"I am very surprised about how Ronaldo changed so much after the World Cup," said Cuper.

"We had always had a good relationship. We had never had a problem before so it sounds very strange to me that the problem for Ronaldo has been the coach of Inter.

"Ronaldo had said several times before that he liked the President, the t-shirt, the society and the supporters, also Italy and "pasta" and then he only leaves because he doesn't like the coach, that is a little thing in comparison with all the rest.

"Ronaldo needed an excuse for leaving Inter and that is what he has done."

Argentinian striker Crespo has arrived from Lazio to replace Ronaldo, and Cuper is satisfied that he will fill his boots well.

"Crespo will replace Ronaldo very well, I am very satisfied with his arrival because I know that Vieri and Crespo could make lots of problems to our rivals.

"I think that Inter will be a very competitive team that will do everything possible to reach all the objectives, including the Champions League.

"I am very satisfied from the market because we have bought very important players like Cannavaro, Crespo, Almeyda, Adani, Gamarra and Morfeo."