Thank you for avenging Inter’s defeat - FIFA World Cup winner praises Maresca and Chelsea for silencing PSG

Italy’s 2006 World Cup-winning defender, Marco Materazzi, has lauded Enzo Maresca and Chelsea FC for what he called the “perfect revenge” over Paris Saint-Germain, months after PSG humiliated Inter Milan in the UEFA Champions League Final.

PSG had previously dismantled Inter 5-0 in May’s Champions League final.

Chelsea’s win marked their first-ever Club World Cup title under the leadership of Italian tactician Enzo Maresca.

In an interview with Lega Serie A, the former Inter and Everton centre-back reflected on his time in England, his relationship with late Everton manager Walter Smith, and Maresca’s Chelsea at the FIFA Club World Cup win, which he described as “personal satisfaction” on behalf of all Inter supporters.

“I have to thank Maresca for avenging Inter’s defeat in the Champions League Final,” Materazzi said, referencing Chelsea’s victory over PSG in the Club World Cup Final held in New York.

Materazzi also revisited his lone season in the Premier League with Everton (1998–1999), describing it as both challenging and life-changing.

He said, “He treated me like a son. When you go abroad, having someone who supports and believes in you as a man, not just a player, helps you settle. He loved Italy, and I’ll always be grateful for the care he showed me.”

The rugged centre-back acknowledged that the English game has evolved, pointing to coaches like Maresca and Guardiola as modernising forces.

“In those years, only a few teams played the ‘Latin way’. Now, with coaches like Maresca, the Premier League has transformed. His Chelsea is proof that technical, intelligent football can win at the highest level," he added.

After returning to Italy, Materazzi went on to become a legend at Inter Milan, winning five Serie A titles, four Coppa Italia, and the 2009–10 UEFA Champions League under José Mourinho.