Following the arrival of former Chelsea manager Antonio Conte, the 31-year-old’s future with the Nerazzurri was said to be hanging in a balance after he was told of not being part of the manager’s plans in the upcoming season.
And to enjoy more first-team opportunities, the former Roma player has joined Cagliari, a destination he spent five years at, featuring 150 times across all competitions.
Speaking to reporters upon his arrival at Sardinia, the controversial defensive midfielder stressed it was a tough decision for him to join the side, having had many offers from top European clubs.
“I’m happy, there’s great enthusiasm and I hope I can take it on to the field,” explained the 31-year-old.
“It’s always been in my thoughts to come back here one day. I didn’t think I’d return this year, but it’s come early and I’m happy all the same.
“It wasn’t difficult to choose Cagliari; I had other possibilities, I talked to other Coaches. But weighing everything up, including situations outside of football, it was right to come back here.
“First of all, I thank President Tommaso Giulini. After the first call he made, he immediately convinced me. He made me promises and kept them.
“Things went the way I wanted them to. It was easy to find an agreement.”
Nainggolan joined Inter Milan from AS Roma in 2018 for a reported fee of €38 million, €24 million plus Davide Santon and Nicolo Zaniolo.
The former Belgium midfielder scored 6 goals and made three assists in twenty-nine Serie A games for Inter Milan last season.
