Derby eve: the manager prepares for the clash with the league leaders
On the eve of one of the most anticipated derbies in recent years, the Rossoneri’s head coach addressed the media with a clear message: enthusiasm, focus and a burning desire to win. Milan and Inter will face off in a match worth far more than three points, with second-placed Milan hosting the Serie A leaders at San Siro on what promises to be an electric evening.
“The derby is always a special and unique occasion, a great match to play and to experience. It will be a wonderful night of sport between first and second in the table,” the manager began, emphasising that the squad is fully aware of what is at stake. Inter currently hold a ten-point advantage, but in football nothing is ever certain: “In football, never say never. Let’s play the derby and see what happens.“
Injury update: Gimenez, Gabbia and Loftus-Cheek ruled out
Regarding absentees, the coach confirmed that Santiago Gimenez, Matteo Gabbia and Ruben Loftus-Cheek will not be available for the big match. The Mexican striker, the Italian centre-back and the English midfielder all remain sidelined, though Gabbia is expected back shortly — welcome news for a stretched Rossoneri defence.
At the back, where numbers are tight, Bartesaghi has been Estupiñán also an option and described as being in excellent shape. On the lack of January defensive reinforcements, the manager explained: “Together with the club we assessed that there were no defenders available who could improve on what we already have.” Young prospect Odogu is also ready if called upon — a youngster “developing well” according to his coach.
Leao fired up: “Life or death” for the derby
Much of the media spotlight has centred on Rafael Leao‘s comments, after the Portuguese winger described the derby as “a match to be lived as if it were life or death.” The manager played down the intensity of the remark with a smile: “His words should be read in a sporting context — it’s a figure of speech, let’s not read too much into it.” The attacker is improving in condition and will be one of Milan’s most dangerous weapons against the Nerazzurri rearguard.
The number ten had also joked after the last away game that he would “stay home every evening” ahead of the derby. The coach revealed with a light touch: “I told him he could go out if he wanted — there’s no need to lock yourself indoors just because there’s a derby coming.“
Pulisic, Nkunku and Füllkrug: the attacking options warm up
Christian Pulisic, who has not found the net in recent matchdays, is reportedly “much better” according to the boss. The American remains a pivotal figure in the Rossoneri’s tactical setup, capable of producing moments of brilliance when it matters most. Alongside him, Nkunku and Niclas Füllkrug are also on the mend: the German forward has overcome his recent physical issues and is eager to make his mark in the derby.
“All our attackers want to be the protagonists,” the manager assured, suggesting the forward line will be at full strength with the sole exception of Gimenez.
A world-class midfield: Rabiot returns to the fold
In midfield, there is significant good news: Adrien Rabiot is fully available after serving his suspension. The Frenchman is growing in form and is in contention for a starting berth alongside Fofana and Modrić. A midfield trio of undeniable international calibre, set to go head-to-head with Inter’s own formidable engine room of Zielinski, Çalhanoğlu and Barella. “We have a strong midfield, and so do Inter. All we care about is bringing technique, heart and intensity to the pitch,” the manager declared.
Set-piece danger: Inter’s corner-kick threat
One of the key tactical talking points concerns Inter’s lethal set-piece record. The Nerazzurri have scored a remarkable 21 goals from dead-ball situations this season, including 15 directly from corners. A staggering figure, powered by the physicality of players like Dumfries, Bastoni and de Vrij and the quality of their delivery. “They have excellent jumpers and excellent deliverers. From crosses, set pieces and shots from distance they are always dangerous,” the coach acknowledged, before adding with confidence: “But we have done well too. We need to play with conviction.“
Ownership shows support: Cardinale expected at San Siro
A strong signal also arrives from the boardroom: Gerry Cardinale, the club’s owner through RedBird Capital, could be present at San Siro for the derby. “We are very pleased. The ownership has visited often over the past month, a sign of great interest. They are building an important Milan and their closeness is positive for everyone,” the manager commented, highlighting how the presence of the ownership provides an extra boost for the team and the entire environment.
Champions League remains the target, but the Scudetto dream lives on
Despite the gap in the standings, the Rossoneri boss refuses to close the door on any ambition. The stated priority is a return to the Champions League, but a derby victory would inevitably reopen the title race conversation. “When you manage Milan, you must aim high. The only method I know is hard work: seriousness, organisation and responsibility towards the DNA of this club,” he stated with conviction, sending a message of ambition to the entire Rossoneri world.
The path ahead is clear: a gruelling run of fixtures against Inter, Juventus, Napoli, Lazio and Atalanta still to come, but a Milan side that is alive, united and determined not to give up. Tomorrow night, under the San Siro floodlights, the pitch will have the final word.
