Ausilio Departs After 28 Years of Service
Inter Milan has announced the departure of Piero Ausilio, who steps down after nearly three decades as a key figure in the club’s sporting leadership. Ausilio, who joined the club in 1996 and served as sporting director since 2010, announced his exit in a heartfelt letter to the Inter community. "My heart will always belong to Inter," he wrote. "It’s time to pass the torch to the next generation."
In a statement released by the club, CEO Giuseppe Marotta confirmed the decision was mutual, citing "a natural evolution in our sporting structure." Marotta praised Ausilio’s "unwavering dedication," noting his pivotal role in shaping transfers like Samuel Eto’o, Mauro Icardi, and Lautaro Martínez.
Baccin Named New Chief Sport Officer
Dario Baccin, who previously served as Inter’s Head of Scouting and Technical Analysis, has been appointed as the new Chief Sport Officer. Baccin, a long-time insider with deep ties to the club’s academy system and data-driven recruitment strategy, is expected to deepen Inter’s focus on youth integration and tactical innovation.
"Dario understands our DNA," said Marotta. "He’s worked behind the scenes for years — he knows our players, our philosophy, and our standards." Baccin’s first major test will be navigating transfer windows and squad planning ahead of the 2024/25 season.
Emotional Farewell from a Club Legend
Ausilio’s farewell letter, addressed to staff, players, and fans, was shared across Inter’s official channels. In it, he remembered late president Massimo Moratti, recalled the 2010 Champions League triumph, and thanked colleagues for "making me feel like part of a family." Many employees in the technical zone were reportedly moved to tears during an internal farewell meeting.
Player Reactions: Lautaro and Dimarco Speak
Lautaro Martínez, Inter’s captain and lead striker, posted a video message on social media: "Piero wasn’t just a director — he was someone who believed in me from day one. I owe him a lot. Thank you, Professor."
Davide Dimarco, another key player groomed under Ausilio’s tenure, added: "He always called me personally after tough matches — even at midnight. That’s not just a job. That’s fatherly support."
What This Means for Inter’s Future
With the highly anticipated Inter-Napoli match just days away — a clash that could define the Serie A title race — this leadership change comes at a critical moment. While Baccin inherits a squad in peak form, the challenge ahead is clear: balancing short-term ambition with long-term sustainability.
Fans are hopeful. The continuity in philosophy, combined with Baccin’s analytical rigor, suggests Inter’s transition is more evolution than revolution. But with Ausilio’s legacy deeply woven into the fabric of the club, the emotional weight of this moment cannot be understated.
As Inter prepares for the next chapter, one truth remains: behind every trophy, every transfer, every moment of glory — there was always Ausilio, quietly guiding the way.
