Roberto Mancini has been speaking to the media in his pre match press conference ahead of Inter’s meeting with Juventus in the Derby D’Italia on Saturday 16 May (kick off 18:00 CET).

Mancini covered a range of subjects including tomorrow’s match, his thoughts on individual players as well as extending an invitation to ‘Inter Night, an event the club is organising for 2015/16 season ticket holders on 26 May at San Siro.

Here is what the Inter coach had to say:

The fans and ‘Inter Night’:

“Obviously we need the supporters because playing in front a packed San Siro is something else. They can help us and the hope is we have as many season ticket holders as possible.”

Tomorrow’s match, Inter will be without Guarin and Hernanes:

“I’m disappointed I can’t select them. The Brazilian is on good form, while Guarin is an important player for the side. I think the team is improving and with that so are our performances. Tomorrow’s match will be tough. When a team wins and makes a final, it gives their players a lift. Plus, those who play will put in even more than those not involved. It will be an awkward fixture. Shaqiri’s fitness has improved and I hope he puts in a big performance.”

Juventus:

“Juventus deserved to win the title and I would like to congratulate them on reaching the Champions League final. As for those in line to play, they’ll definitely be fresher than their other players. I don’t believe it’s going to be easy by any means. There’s a rivalry that stays on the pitch. Juventus had a tough time of it but managed to rebuild. The same goes for Inter, projects like these take time.”

Kovacic:

“Kovacic is a player with great ability and he’s improving. He’s got massive potential and we’re looking to him as we go forward.”

Inter’s progress so far since you took over:

“In terms of the difference in our results at home and on the road, you need to consider that teams come to San Siro and keep things tight which makes it hard to find space. We need to improve on that. There are two main factors we have to assess in the second half of the season compared with the reverse fixture. The team has improved and we’ve become just that – a team. That’s positive. The negative side has been the results because we hoped to finish in the top three.”

Finally a word on Uefa’s FFP sanctions:

“UEFA appreciate the efforts Inter have made, the president will invest and we’ll definitely improve the team. Thohir wants a winning Inter side. We need to see who we bring in and who leaves the club.”

 

Source: inter.it