Former Inter chief executive Ernesto Paolillo has spoken on the importance of the Derby della Madonnina ahead of this weekend’s match between Inter and AC Milan.

Inter come into this match 19 points ahead of their city rivals and also in control of the bragging rights having won the first derby of the season 2-0 earlier on in the season with thanks to goals from Marcelo Brozovic and Romelu Lukaku.

“It is one of the most important games of the season. I experienced it with a lot of emotion, also because it became an event to be lived together with friends, many of the Rossoneri faith,” he remarked in an interview with CalcioToday.it.

Paolillo, who has not taken up any other roles in football since leaving his role with Inter at the end of the 2011/12 season, then went on to speak about a Milan derby that sticks out for him in particular.

“I remember in particular the derby in the treble winning year, when we won 4-0. We were away from home on that day and in these games there is never a favourite, anything can happen.”

He proceeded to discuss Inter closing the gap on Juventus after their January transfer market business and their chances of winning the Serie A title.

“We got closer, reaching the Bianconeri is difficult because they actually have two teams. This does not mean that the Nerazzurri cannot win the league title though.”

He concluded the interview by speaking on Inter manager Antonio Conte: “He certainly can no longer complain to the leaders, who are putting great effort and doing everything to please him.”