In the wake of his farewell to Olimpia Milano, Ettore Messina gave an exclusive interview to La Gazzetta dello Sport. Here are some excerpts.
On the results
“In terms of results, we certainly could have done better in the EuroLeague in recent years, but we established ourselves as an important club in Europe, fulfilling the request of Mr. Armani, who was always close to us together with Leo Dell’Orco — a discreet but very strong presence for seven years.”
On the end of the relationship
“With his passing (Giorgio Armani’s, editor’s note), I began to feel, on a personal level, that my task had come to an end, and the events of the following months confirmed that belief. Hence the decision to part ways with an embrace and mutual good wishes.”
On his executive role
“The decisions regarding the team, with the collaboration of the staff, were ultimately mine, and seeing that it achieved the Italian treble gave me great comfort. I made sure not to interfere, even when — as was naturally bound to happen — I would have thought about doing things differently.”
On his absence from the finals in Venice
“By then, both the ownership and I knew that we would be ending our relationship. I thought it was more respectful to let those who will continue here celebrate, rather than make an unnecessary appearance.”
On the dual role
“In terms of the change in mentality, I am pleased with what we did in relation to the objectives entrusted to us by Mr. Armani. Looking back, more or less halfway through, after the second Scudetto, I should have handed the executive position to someone else. Also to put an end to all the controversies that frequently arose. And those controversies, speaking of one man in charge who listens to no one, were always disrespectful to the collaborators the club has had and continues to have.”
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