Although Inter Milan president Moratti declared that Benitez is still the team's head coach, Italian media have already determined that the Spaniard will hand over the reins. At this moment, Leonardo has become the biggest hot spot as the new coach of the Nerazzurri. Reports say that the Brazilian players within Inter Milan support the former Milan youth coach, and captain Javier Zanetti also has no objections. Although Brazil and Argentina are football rivals, in the international squad of Inter Milan, the Brazilian and Argentine factions get along well. Julio Cesar, Maicon, Lucio, and Zanetti, Cambiasso are like brothers. On the issue of Leonardo taking over Inter Milan, both factions also show support.
Of course, while the media is currently hyping Leonardo to replace Benitez, it is not yet known whether this Milan hero would be willing to join the former archenemy's camp. In October this year, when Leonardo was linked with the Roma coaching position, he had denied it publicly: "I have spent a wonderful period of my professional career in the Rossoneri! Now, I do not want to betray my past! Although I have left San Siro Stadium, I still maintain close ties with AC Milan. Currently, it is unlikely for me to go to Italy to coach. However, it might be possible in the future!" Two months have passed now, will Leonardo change his mind in the face of Inter Milan's invitation?
Last season, Leonardo, who served AC Milan for many years and worked as a director and scout, began his coaching career in the Rossoneri. Despite achieving third place in his debut season, due to political differences with Berlusconi, Coach Leonardo chose to leave this summer. Inter Milan president Moratti is a fan of Leonardo. This January, he publicly expressed admiration for him: "I greatly admire Leonardo, and I hope one day to invite him to be our coach. He is a respected young man with strong international prestige."
It is reported that captain Zanetti is a good friend of Leonardo privately, and these years, Leonardo has been strongly supporting Zanetti’s Pupi Foundation charity activities.
Thus, when Inter Milan's performance was poor and Benitez's position was in danger, Leonardo was always considered by the media as a popular candidate for the new coach. Now, with Capello, Spaletti, and Hiddink saying no to Inter Milan, Leonardo has become the top choice to replace Coach Benitez. AC Milan player Antonio Nocerino even publicly stated that he does not oppose Leonardo joining their city rival.