Scudetto 1970-71

Lore & Background

The season began under manager Heriberto Herrera, who had taken over after the golden era of the 1960s. Luis Suárez was transferred out to Sampdoria after nine years in Milan. Early results shocked fans: Inter were eliminated from the Coppa Italia and knocked out of the Fairs Cup by Newcastle United. President Ivanoe Fraizzoli, who indicated he was willing to sell the club if the right offer came, fired Herrera after a 0–3 loss to city rivals Milan. Youth team boss Giovanni Invernizzi was appointed initially on a temporary basis. Invernizzi rejuvenated the squad: he turned Tarcisio Burgnich into a sweeper, played young Mauro Bellugi at right-back, reintegrated Jair, replaced summer signing Mario Frustalupi with Mario Bertini, and asked the club's senators – Giacinto Facchetti, Sandro Mazzola, Mario Corso and Boninsegna – to perform to their status. The turning point came after a defeat to Napoli in week 7. On the flight home, Invernizzi and experienced players plotted their path to the title with a fixture list, creating the 'tabella' that became part of Inter folklore. Following that defeat, Inter went on an unbeaten run taking 21 points from a possible 24, won the return derby, wiped out a significant point gap held by winter champions Milan, and clinched the championship with two games to spare. This is the first and only time in Serie A history that a team changed coach mid-season and went on to be crowned champions.

In Their Own Story

The final whistle at San Siro cut through the anxious roar of the crowd, signaling the end of a grueling test of nerves. Roberto Boninsegna stood firm as the defense held its line, just as it had all season under Herrera's command. Giacinto Facchetti, the captain, raised his arms to the North Stand where the 'Curva Nord' erupted in a sea of blue and black scarves. It was the 18th title they would parade on their chest, the last time Helenio Herrera would lead them as kings of Italy before the dynasty faded into memory.

Reader's Guide

The 1970–71 season saw Inter compete in Serie A, Coppa Italia, and the Fairs Cup. They were eliminated early from both the Coppa Italia and the Fairs Cup. Their Serie A campaign, however, ended with the title.

Did You Know?

• Inter won their 11th league title in 1971.
• Manager Heriberto Herrera was fired after a 0–3 loss to Milan and replaced by Giovanni Invernizzi.
• Invernizzi is the only coach in Serie A history to take over mid-season and win the title.
• The 'tabella' – a fixture list used to plot the title run – became part of Inter folklore.