For many years, Poland international Piotr Zielinski was an integral part of the Napoli starting eleven. Now, however, supporters will have to come to terms with the idea. The 30-year-old has moved on to Inter Milan
Although Piotr Zielinski comes from Frankenstein (Zabkowice Slaskie) and is therefore a Polish citizen, the professional footballer probably also has a good dose of Italy in him. Why? Quite simply: the midfielder, who once trained at Zaglebie Lubin, has been playing on the boot since 2012.
After spells at Udinese Calcio (2012 to 2016) and a loan spell at FC Empoli, the player with fine technique and a keen eye recommended himself for bigger challenges in 2016 – which he eventually took on in the kit of SSC Napoli.
Until this summer, almost ten years, the now 30-year-old laced up his boots for the southern Italian side – and made his mark in the history books by winning the long-awaited third SSC championship with his colleagues in 2023.
“Footballing class, character and a lot of experience “
However, after a total of 364 competitive matches for the Napoli side (51 goals, 46 assists), Zielinski drew a line in the sand, did not extend his expiring contract again – and moved to Inter Milan in Serie A without further ado. In doing so, he went from last year’s Scudetto winner to this year’s Scudetto winner, where he signed a contract until June 30, 2028
The transfer of the 93-time Poland international, who failed to make the group stage at this year’s European Championship in Germany alongside the likes of Robert Lewandowski, was announced in detail by Milan on Saturday via their official channels, writing among other things: “Footballing class, character and a lot of experience in Serie A – Piotr Zielinski, the first Polish player in Inter’s club history, is ready to showcase all his qualities in Inter kit.”
Zielinski himself, meanwhile, had his picture taken in the Nerazzurri’s club museum in front of all the trophies he has already won and said with a broad grin: “I can’t wait to play at San Siro. Forza Inter!”
But one thing is also clear: under successful coach Simone Inzaghi, who has won three titles in three years at Inter (twice Coppa Italia, now the championship this summer), the new signing must first win himself a regular place. After all, the center has been Milan’s showpiece for some time now, with outstanding players such as Hakan Calhanoglu, Nicolo Barella, Henrikh Mkhitaryan and the 24-year-old Davide Frattesi.
