In a proper Derby the themes are always numerous and often go beyond simple on-field issues. The international break before tonight’s match between Inter and Milan increased tension and expectation. Many focus on the table, others want or fear an Inter response after Milan’s five unbeaten Derbies last season.
The key theme is the battle on the bench.
Tonight you get Massimiliano Allegri, an old hand who returns after years to a Derby della Madonnina, against Cristian Chivu who faces his first match of this level as head coach. Repubblica highlighted this with its headline:
“Rookie and veteran, Chivu against Allegri, a dizzying Derby"
Then the paper reported the coaches’ remarks. First Chivu, “There are no favourites in a derby, these matches are fifty-fifty. We want our supporters to enjoy a calm Monday without taunts”. Then Allegri, “A historic rivalry for Milan, the match will be wonderful. They are among the title favourites with Napoli, but this fixture always stands on its own”.
