Leonardo has spoken about his decision to leave AC Milan and cross the city divide to join Inter back in 2010, admitting it was not an easy choice to make.
The Brazilian turned 54 yesterday and he spoke to Globoesporte in his home country about his career, which saw him play for Milan from 1997 to 2001 and then return for a season before he retired in 2003.
Leonardo then began a career as an executive, having served as a director under Silvio Berlusconi and Adriano Galliani, but surprisingly took on the role as head coach for the 2009-10 season.
“I started sitting in on Adriano Galliani’s meetings, even when I was still playing. Afterwards, it was like going to university just observing him at work,” he said (via Football Italia).
“I had problems with him and that disagreement was why I left Milan. I think it was a difficult moment for him too, as he was Prime Minister, there were lots of things happening…
“In the end, I left because I had been at the club for 13 years and eras must come to an end.”
There were issues between the former Rossoneri player and Berlusconi which led up to him leaving, and then not long after he became Inter boss replacing Rafa Benitez.
“In 2010, I just stayed in Milan because I didn’t have anywhere else to go, I was taking a break in my career. Just before Christmas, Massimo Moratti called and I had turned him down so many times before, but this night at his home I had no escape.
“He got me swept up in the cause, and as always I acted on instinct. There were strong, strong reactions. Not even I expected them to be that strong. After all, players had represented both clubs before.
“My rapport with Milan was deeper, so it was tough every single day. As for when the derby came along… There were threats, but let’s forget about that.
“I remember what Moratti said to me, that it was almost wonderful to see so much reaction for just one person.”
