Inter Milan GM Beppe Marotta admits he wished he had left Juventus in smoother fashion.

In the days after his departure, Juve director Pavel Nedved claimed Marotta was “never a Juventino" even during his years with the Old Lady.

“I was born in Varese and if I am in football today, it's because I support Varese," replied Marotta during Il Foglio a San Siro event.

“Living close to the stadium in Varese, and acting as a mascot from the age of six, I fell in love with football. It is a profession for me.

“Pavel's comment, considering he came to Juve from Lazio, was a spontaneous moment and we have had the opportunity since then to clear the air. You cannot expect a director of sport to be a passionate supporter of any one club. I cheer on Varese."