Legendary Italian manager Marcello Lippi has praised Inter for the way in which they have started the season after they picked up their 11th win from 13 games at the weekend.
After this past weekend’s action, Inter find themselves just one point behind leaders Juventus, who currently occupy top spot with 35 points to their name.
“It is very nice because it has certainly made the start to the season more interesting. I think the duel between the sides may last until the very end,” he began an interview with Corriere dello Sport, which is in today’s print edition.
“In August I thought there would have been three teams involved, but Napoli have fallen behind and it will be difficult for them to catch up.
“Juventus are still the only unbeaten team, they are already through to the knockout stages of the Champions League and are League leaders. And, they are just taking 60/70% of their chances.
“Juventus are going through a period of transformation, from the style of Allegri to that of Sarri. So far, he has won more thanks to the quality of the individuals rather than his style of play.”
Lippi then went on to state that in the end he thinks Juventus will still end up being crowned champions.
“The opponents of Juve should be worried. As soon as the Bianconeri improve their performances, there won’t even be a story this year. In football you can’t take anything for granted and the maths is something else.
“Since one team have been winning for eight years and strengthened further over the summer, it’s inevitable to expect that this era of success will continue.”
He also touched upon the work Antonio Conte has managed to do in his short time in charge at Inter.
“Antonio is doing everything to the fullest. He cares about every little detail. He works a lot and manages to stimulate the team. He is someone that makes the difference and if there was a manager capable of reducing the gap, then it was him.
“He has everyone following him, he has established a crazy feeling in the dressing room whilst the players are doing good out on the pitch. I expected this from him. I managed Conte and I know what kind of person he is. He is a leader and a driving force.
“In January the Inter squad will probably be improved and this will allow the Nerazzurri to remain attached to Juve. They need a few more bodies to help with rotation.”
In conclusion he was asked whether he would rather manage the Juventus or Inter attack.
“They are two very strong attacking departments: Lautaro Martinez has grown so much and has become an important player; I have always admired Lukaku and he is making a difference in Italy. I also like Juventus’ strikers. They all play well.”