EXCLUSIVE: Italian Icon Dino Zoff Shares Insights on Inter, Juventus, and VAR

As the Derby d’Italia approaches, Dino Zoff, the 82-year-old captain of Italy’s triumphant 1982 World Cup squad, and the sole Italian to have claimed both the World Cup and the European Championship, shared his thoughts with Flashscore.

While he may very well be regarded as the most significant footballer in the annals of Italian football, Zoff is indifferent to such accolades, preferring to focus on his achievements on the pitch. Nonetheless, he remains an iconic figure in both Italian and global football.

“No, I can’t say that about myself. Let’s just say I’m fortunate enough to be the only one to have won both a European Championship and a World Cup, which makes me quite proud,” he remarked.

At Juventus, he established one of the most formidable and revered defensive lines in football history. In 1973, Zoff narrowly missed out on the Ballon d’Or, finishing as a runner-up to Johan Cruyff, who had triumphed over him in the European Cup final that year in Belgrade.

Not only did Zoff represent the national team as a player, but he also took the reins as coach, leading Italy to the edge of European glory in 2000.

A true Juventus legend, he also oversaw the development of current Inter manager Simone Inzaghi during his tenure at Lazio.

With the Derby d’Italia looming, Zoff deliberated on both the eagerly anticipated match and the ongoing VAR controversies.

It’s ironic that VAR was hailed as the ultimate solution to all issues…

“I don’t appreciate it at all, as it’s overused. It’s burdensome, leading to penalties and red cards being issued for minimal contact. While it’s reliable for straightforward decisions like offside or determining if the ball has crossed the line, I believe its use should be restricted to clear-cut situations where the referee has missed something. They shouldn’t intervene for every minor infringement; the on-field referee’s judgement should take precedence.”

Could a call-on-demand VAR system be the answer?

“But who’s going to initiate that? The coach from the sidelines who can barely see the play? Less usage would be beneficial because, ultimately, football is a contact sport and not every instance of contact should result in a penalty or card. We should return to placing the referee at the centre of the action; their decisions must carry weight.”

Amidst the uproar, the most contentious clash lies ahead: Juventus vs Inter.

“Controversy will always be part of the game. There was a belief that VAR would eliminate it, but in reality, the situation has deteriorated.”

What fond memories do you have of the Derby d’Italia? Does it remain the most captivating match in Italian football?

“Absolutely, it still features the two premier teams. Inter claimed the championship last year and are projected to contend fiercely again this season, while Juventus is also on the rise. It’s still a defining match for sure.”

In your era, Juventus were often considered the frontrunners, a status that’s changed recently.

“That’s true. However, I too have shipped plenty of goals at the San Siro (he laughs)… In recent years, it’s Inter who are viewed as the ones to beat. Still, results must be determined on the pitch.”

You coached Simone Inzaghi at Lazio – did you foresee that he would excel more as a manager than as a player?

“Absolutely, he was always a bright and keen individual. He constantly sought to learn across all facets. As a player, he displayed professionalism, and as a coach, he’s proving himself just as effectively.”

Inter displayed commendable faith in him, even after he relinquished a Scudetto that was widely believed to be secured.

“Patience is crucial in football as there will always be phases when results aren’t forthcoming. It’s vital during those times to maintain confidence in the ability to reverse one’s fortunes. However, patience does have its limits.”

Are you referring to Thiago Motta?

“Not at all. I believe he deserves a bit more time since he’s working with a young squad that has many new players. He’s performed reasonably well in European competitions while having drawn a few matches too many in the domestic league.”

Juventus is attempting to rejuvenate at an institutional level, perhaps even more so than on the pitch. Are they heading in the right direction?

“I believe so. In the long haul, tradition will re-emerge, and it appears they’re already making strides along that path.”