Former Roma and Lazio coach Zdenek Zeman says Inter Milan are head-and-shoulders above the rest of Serie A.

"Mourinho's team has run its own race since last summer," Zeman told La Gazzetta dello Sport. "There was no competition.

"The other clubs have participated in another championship. Inter are too strong for the abundance of choices they have between alternative solutions and also for the quality of their so-called regulars."

When asked to explain why Italian teams suffered in Europe this year, Zeman replied: "They lack the mentality.

"Mourinho started out with a 4-3-3 but abandoned it. Evidently, for the singular characteristics, the team is more effective in other formations.

"The result is the only thing privileged," Zeman complained. "Instead, when you face European clubs, the play counts, too."

Zeman was then asked to describe how good this current Inter side is and whether it's actually any better than last year.

"I'll only say that Mourinho has revealed himself to be an exceptional communicator. But Inter have also been able to dominate on a football level."