In a bittersweet turn of events, Inter Milan were held to a 1-1 draw by Lazio during their Serie A title party at the San Siro. Despite the draw, Inter Milan’s triumph in securing the Scudetto weeks ago was cause for celebration.
However, the club’s future hangs in the balance as a looming debt deadline threatens their ownership.
Denzel Dumfries salvaged a point for Inter Milan with a late equalizer, cancelling out Daichi Kamada’s goal for Lazio in the 32nd minute.
While the result may not have mattered much to Inter, who have already secured the league title, the trophy ceremony took place against a backdrop of uncertainty. The club faces the possibility of repossession within a matter of days.
What was meant to be a joyous weekend of celebration has been overshadowed by the impending Tuesday deadline for Inter Milan to repay approximately 395 million euros ($429 million) to US fund Oaktree.
The club’s Chinese owners, Suning, are facing challenges in fulfilling this financial obligation, raising concerns about the future ownership of the club.
There are indications that Oaktree could potentially take control of Inter Milan, similar to how AC Milan was acquired by another US fund, Elliott Management, six years ago.
This uncertainty has cast a shadow over the club, with fans displaying a banner reading “Thanks Steven” in reference to president Steven Zhang, suggesting a lack of faith in Suning’s ability to retain ownership.
Despite the off-field challenges, Inter Milan’s sporting CEO, Giuseppe Marotta, remains optimistic, stating that the club is in a “solid” position. However, the situation remains precarious as the debt deadline approaches.
Since Suning’s acquisition of the club in 2016, Inter Milan has experienced success, winning seven trophies, including two Serie A titles, and reaching two European finals.
However, the financial constraints and potential change in ownership have raised concerns about the club’s future direction.
As Inter Milan’s fans revel in their recent triumph, the uncertainty surrounding the club’s ownership and financial stability looms large. The coming days will be crucial in determining the path forward for one of Italy’s most storied football clubs.
