Inter Coach Antonio Conte: “It’ll Be Difficult Because We’re Facing A Great Team In A Derby”

Inter coach Antonio Conte spoke to gathered reporters at a press conference today, ahead of tomorrow’s league clash against AC Milan. His words were collected by Italian media outlet FcInterNews.

First, the 50-year-old Italian coach spoke about the difference between tomorrow’s derby and the derby meeting in the first half of the season.

“The difference is that we were at the start of the league in day four. Neither team knew what kind of path they were going to take. Milan had another coach. Derby games are always very important, the Milanese derby is important. We’ll have to focus on the match and the points because winning means getting three points.”

Conte then touched on whether winning tomorrow’s game would be another step forward.

“We are starting a series of important games that can say a lot at the end of this period. We will know more about our path.”

The former Chelsea and Juventus coach also spoke about the physical condition of Inter captain Samir Handanovic.

“As you know the medical staff will talk about him, it’s only fair they talk about it.”

Conte confirmed that it was difficult to prepare for tomorrow’s game.

“Absolutely because Milan are worth more than the points they have. They’re a great team and they’ve added a champion like Ibra who brings confidence and experience.”

The 50-year-old Italian coach discussed Danish midfielder Christian Eriksen and whether he is ready for the derby.

“I’m glad we have him. If we signed him, it’s because we know he can get into our game. We’ll try to work with him, both offensively and defensively. It’s very important because it’s a whole new world for him. In Italy there’s much more tactics than abroad, where they’re often not so fixed on certain situations. He should have his time to get into our idea of the game.”

Conte didn’t feel too much pressure before tomorrow’s derby.

“We know we’re facing a set of big games against strong teams. Milan is one of them. The derby has some pitfalls that we must be very careful about. As I’ve often said, we have to make our own path, we have to look at ourselves. Surely after these games we will have clearer ideas about what the path will be. The important thing is that we continue to build and do what we are doing with humility and intensity.”

He spoke about what it will take to win the derby tomorrow.

“It’s the team that wins the derby, it’s clear whoever gets the shot has to score it. But the assumption is that we are a team that enhances the quality of the individual. It’s going to be difficult because we’re facing a great team in a derby.”

The former Chelsea and Juventus coach didn’t suggest that the Milanese derby was of particular importance to him.

“Honestly, every game brings new emotions. We are focused on the fact that we have to play a game that is worth three points. It’s also a derby and therefore it’s more difficult because you want to excel in the city where you are. It was like that at the start, it was like that in London or Turin. I repeat, for me the game is worth the points. They’re important for us and for AC Milan.”

He was happy that Milan striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic will be playing.

“I think it’s right that in the best games everyone is available. He adds to the show. We’re talking about a champion who has brought experience and personality to AC Milan. Great respect for him, I think it will be a strong emotion for Ibrahimovic. I wish always the best.”

Conte spoke about the fact that the Nerazzurri have signed five players from the Premier League since he arrived.

“I had a great experience in England, it’s one of the most important leagues in the world. You can find a lot of good players. We certainly looked for the best solutions to improve and, in this case, there were opportunities to take players in England. I’m very lucky because these players have done very well. It’s a tactical decision and for the quality of the players, for their intensity.”

Finally, Conte discussed how long it will take for Eriksen to be fully ready.

“Hopefully not too long because we need him. He played the last two games, he certainly needs some time to get into our football and figure out what I want defensively and offensively. But he’s a smart player, he understands football very well. We’re very happy to have him.”