Ince turns 59: remembering the Guv’nor on Inter’s podcast

Even before becoming Inter president, Massimo Moratti was struck by Paul Ince during a Manchester United match: he had gone to watch Eric Cantona, but the midfielder also caught his eye. It is one of the stories revisited in the 21 October episode of Internazionale Morning Club, dedicated to the Englishman on his 59th birthday.

The transfer took more than one attempt. Alex Ferguson rejected the first offer before eventually giving the green light. There was still a family matter to resolve, however: Ince’s wife Claire wanted to find the right home before he signed. The club’s account recalls an unusual unveiling, with an official explaining to journalists that Ince was not yet an Inter player. He would become one a few weeks later.

The podcast also revisits the incident in Cremona, when Ince was subjected to racist chanting and responded with sarcastic applause, earning a booking. After the match, he called for firm action from the Italian Football Federation, warning that similar incidents could drive other black players away from Italy. The club’s official tribute places this episode from his two years at Inter alongside the fighting spirit he showed on the pitch.

Having arrived in 1995, the Guv’nor made 73 appearances and scored 13 goals for Inter, including an overhead kick away at Cagliari. After two seasons, he returned to England, where he continued playing until he was 40. Today’s episode also revisits his bond with the fans, who sang a chant in his honour: an affection the club continues to celebrate today with its birthday wishes.