Atalanta captain Papu Gomez has thanked Inter and Milan for the ‘honour’ of letting his club use San Siro, but ultras of the city rivals are furious.
“Unfortunately, the Champions League won’t be played at our stadium,” Gomez wrote on Instagram.
“For this reason, on behalf of my teammates, we want to thank Inter and Milan for welcoming us to their glorious stadium…
“For us it’s crucial not to make long trips, especially in such a demanding competition. It’ll be an honour to play San Siro and we’ll give the best of ourselves. Thank you so much.”
However, in a lengthy statement, the Curva Sud slammed the decision.
“In the football we love, this request would’ve been returned to sender with a good, long laugh. Percassi’s request offends us Milan fans. San Siro is our home.”
That was preceded by a similarly-critical post from Inter’s Curva Nord ultras.
“A wicked choice, absurd, dictated by interests and one that tramples over all logic.”
The Dea needed an alternative venue as theirs does not meet UEFA standards and is currently being renovated.
