Roberto Mancini has been speaking to reporters today from Appiano Gentile in his pre match press conference ahead of Sunday night’s Milan derby (kick off 20:45 CET).
Here is what the coach had to say:
This is the first derby being played with both teams doing poorly, how much does this match mean?
“The derby is an important game, but compared to other years it is a bit poorer. For us this can be a basis for a great revival.”
Is the victory against Hellas Verona a sign of growth?
“I’m sorry I can’t play the same team that won against Verona because of suspensions as they all done well. I hope that those who play in their place can continue along the same line as the Verona game.”
Will the derby also be a chance to decide what happens in the future market?
“Clearly, the market will depend on many things. It’s hard to talk about it right now.”
Did you expect more from Shaqiri?
There is a decline on his part which is normal for new players. The players who arrived in January will be very important for next season. Sometimes we expect too much from new players. There are players who may face difficulties in adapting to a new league.”
Does the derby still have the same atmosphere as before?
“The players feel the derby as well as all the big games. Before there was more tension but today there are more matches including midweek matches so we miss that aspect.”
Before there was more passion?
“The world evolves and changes everything. We were lucky in my years, there were many champions, but playing football is the most beautiful thing in the world.”
The stadium will be packed. Betraying the fans would be very bad?
“We all want to win matches, and we want to please the fans who come to watch as well as the people who work in the club. Unfortunately this doesn’t always happen but it doesn’t mean we are betraying anyone. Attitude counts but sometimes it doesn’t. The players are young and make mistakes sometimes, everyone makes mistakes, that’s football.”
Inter – Milan. Who has the most to lose?
“We are playing at home so it would be more serious for us to lose. The same way it was when Milan where the home team in the reverse fixture.”
How do you rate the season?
“I was hoping that Inter could be higher and be in the running for the title but it hasn’t worked out like that.”
Gnoukouri could play? How does a boy prepare for a game like this?
“The youngsters have no pressure when they play. If the youngsters do well then they will have more chances to play in this last part of the season.”
Who are the favourites for the game? Is there any regret for the Europa League elimination after seeing Napoli beat Wolfsburg?
“I think there is no favourite going into this game. Napoli played like us in the first half hour, then they controlled the game. Napoli didn’t make mistakes, we did.”
How do you explain the difference in performances at home compared to away matches?
“San Siro isn’t an easy ground to play at. When things aren’t going well we have to be strong or it can get to you. We suffer a lot less away from home. Playing in front of our home fans has to make us stronger.”
Is Gnoukouri ready to start?
“The boy seems very quiet and doesn’t seem to suffer the pressure. He is young but no one can know the impact of the game on him if he plays.”
What is the situation of Nagatomo and Kovacic?
“Kovacic has great qualities but he must prove himself in training and use his qualities when he has a chance to play. Nagatomo is extraordinary and he loves to run. He did not play because of his injury. He is not in a condition to play for 90 minutes yet.”
Could there be a chance for Podolski?
“Lukas is similar to Shaqiri. He has played a lot and we thought he could score some important goals. He’s very professional but I don’t know if he will play tomorrow.”
Source: fcinternews.it
