Italian journalist Matteo Marani analysed the form of Inter and AC Milan in an editorial in today’s paper edition of the Turin based newspaper Tuttosport.

“A century seems to have passed since the last derby in Milan. Instead it was just February 9th. Since that day almost everything has changed. No one could have imagined that soon after that not only football, but the whole world would be stopped.”

He highlighted how much the Nerazzurri have grown since the last meeting between the two Milanese clubs.

“Since then Inter have grown a lot because they ended the season with 82 points and that hasn’t happened since Mourinho’s time, and because they experienced a decisive August reaching a final, unthinkable in February, in the Europa League.

“Add Vidal, Hakimi, Kolarov and the precious renewal of Sanchez. A team finally structured to win the Scudetto.”

Marani commented on how both the Rossoneri and the Nerazzurri will approach next weekend’s derby with optimism and excitement, considering the strong start to the season for both teams. The Rossoneri have won their first three games of the season.

“Milan and Inter arrive at this derby with renewed ambitions, transferring to the match a meaning that seemed lost.

“For ten years the city has not tasted the Scudetto and in the post-war period it’s never happened that the economic capital of our country has waited for so long for the title again.”

Finally, Marani spoke positively of both teams and how both can look to achieve their goals this season under coach Antonio Conte and Stefano Pioli.

“Conte can bring Inter back to the title after Mourinho, Pioli can bring Milan back to where they belong, six years later, in the Champions League.

“What a beautiful, important and precious derby. Hoping that the virus doesn’t ruin it too much.”

Inter coach Antonio Conte has been forced to re-design his starting 11 ahead of next weekend’s derby, due to the fact that six players so far have tested positive for COVID-19.

These players are Alessandro Bastoni, Milan Skriniar, Radja Nainggolan, Ashley Young, Ionut Radu and Roberto Gagliardini.