Inter Milan signed Gabriel Barbosa behind Frank De Boer’s back, says brother Ronald
Brazilian moved to Serie A giants ahead of Barcelona and Manchester United, but was not a target of now ex-manager
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FRANK DE BOER’S brother has claimed the Inter Milan hierarchy brought in players behind his back during his short stay.
Ronald, who played alongside his twin at Ajax, Barcelona and Rangers, reveals Gabriel Barbosa was one of the signings the now former Nerazzurri boss had no say over.
Inter beat off competition from the likes of Manchester United and Barcelona to sign the Brazilian striker from Santos — but he has barely featured for the Serie A side.
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And Ronald insists it’s because he was not brought in by his brother.
Speaking to , he said: “The squad was not yet ready to play the type of football he wanted — and was far too big.
“There were about seven or eight players the he either wanted to get or rid of or didn’t want to sign.
“Among these was Gabriel Barbosa. Frank had absolutely no say on this transfer and Gabriel arrived all of a sudden.
“Frank tried to concentrate solely on football matters, but in the end, he found himself swamped with other things.
“We thought that Inter, which did have a good squad, would be adaptable to him.
“But it was a judgement error.”
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Ronald insists they are both disappointed at the outcome.
And, while he insists the blame lies primarily with external factors, he did admit Frank wasn’t able to achieve his objectives.
He added: “Of course I’m disappointed — as he is.
“Frank is combative and is convinced he would have been successful had he stayed.
“But, unfortunately, it went differently. You also need to take a look in the mirror.
“Frank wasn’t able to change things on the pitch.”
Frank De Boer has recently been linked with jobs in the Premier League such as Tottenham and Everton in recent years.
And Ronald thinks his brother is open to the possibility in the future.
“A new job would not necessarily have to be abroad, but right now, he doesn’t have anywhere in mind.
“I believe he is positive. It has been a difficult experience, but it was educational.
“It is said you sometimes learn more in defeat.
“Of course, if you go to work for other clubs, you need to be flexible.”