The derby win over Inter has reignited an enthusiasm that had been missing from the Milan world for far too long. A convincing 3-1, full of personality and quality. A result worth three points — but worth so much more in terms of morale, confidence and team spirit. And yet, amid the general celebrations, a more clear-eyed reflection on the club’s current moment is both necessary and worthwhile.
Diawara, Modrić, Rabiot: A Night to Frame
The derby produced some beautiful images. Sankhoun Diawara, just 20 years old, thrown into the fray by Rúben Amorim with courage and clarity, responded with a performance that belied his age. A bold call that rewarded the manager and showed there are still untapped resources within this squad. Alongside him, the timeless class of Luka Modrić, the muscular dominance of Adrien Rabiot — who won virtually everything in the midfield — and the brilliance of Diego Moreira, who contributed a goal and two assists in a dream display.
And then there is Mike Maignan — an absolute wall. A goalkeeper who kept the result intact during difficult moments and provided the entire backline with a sense of security. On a night like this, it was hard to find a single underperformer.
Amorim: When He Prepares a Match, He Does It Like a Top Manager
Full credit must go to Rúben Amorim for preparing the derby to near perfection. He found the right tactical shape, made courageous choices — including the decision to start Diawara — and managed to motivate the squad for a fixture that, psychologically, is worth far more than three points. On the eve of the match he had declared his desire to build his project here, and on Sunday he showed he has the qualities to do exactly that. Sustaining that level of performance, however, remains the key challenge: after the 4-2 defeat against Bologna, this Milan needed to respond with character — and it did.
But the Derby Cannot Be the Destination
And this is where the more uncomfortable — but necessary — reflection comes in. Milan cannot be satisfied with winning derbies as if they were a consolation prize. In recent years, a painful paradox has taken shape: derbies won, but titles lost. The other side of the city has been collecting Scudetti and trophies, while the Rossoneri have celebrated in direct matchups but come away with little in terms of silverware — the Italian Super Cup aside.
Sunday’s victory must be a mental and psychological turning point, not a final destination. A sign that this squad can be genuinely competitive — not proof that it should settle for less.
January: Real Reinforcements Are Needed
The January transfer window therefore becomes a central topic. The current squad shows clear limitations in terms of depth: when a first-team player picks up an injury, the quality drop is tangible. At least two or three quality additions are needed to give Amorim real alternatives to rely on, without the risk of a squad that runs out of steam — physically and emotionally — before the season is out.
Gerry Cardinale has gone on record, publicly declaring his intention to act in the winter market. A promise that the Rossoneri faithful are waiting to see delivered. The derby win is a starting point, not a conclusion. Milan has the quality to aim high — now it needs the structure to actually do it.
