The Brazilian has become a key player since joining from Bayern Munich two years ago, and helped Inter to a historic treble last season. He also remains a regular in the Brazil side, and the 33-year-old wants to continue his successful career at the San Siro beyond next year.
“I hope to stay here,” he told Inter’s official television channel. “I am waiting for my agreement to be renewed because it is my desire to remain. I have been at this club for two years now and they have been wonderful, but it will be up to the club to decide.”
Inter have had a disappointing season, failing to win the league for the first time since 2006 and finishing runners-up to arch rivals AC Milan. They were also thrashed by Schalke 04 in the Champions League quarter-finals, losing 7-3 on aggregate, but hope to restore some pride when they face Palermo in the Coppa Italia final on Sunday.
“We can’t expect that an easy match is awaiting us against Palermo,” said Lucio. “We should not look at who the opponent is, but rather take to the pitch and play our game, to win. The more difficult the matches are, the more we need to show our character.”
Inter have some star Brazilian names in their squad who will hope to triumph on Sunday. Alongside Lucio in defence they have right-back Maicon, as well as goalkeeper Julio Cesar and young attacking midfielder Philippe Coutinho. They are coached by 1994 World Cup winner Leonardo.
