Former AC Milan defender Massimo Ambrosini discussed next weekend’s derby between the Rossoneri and Inter in an interview in today’s paper edition of the Turin based newspaper Tuttosport.

“The history of derby is unpredictable. In the last few years there have been several goals and wins that have come to the last minute. The balance, beyond the position in the standings that saw the Inter always higher and higher, has always existed.”

He highlighted how both teams have started the season strongly, setting up an exciting derby next weekend.

“There will be two teams that have confirmed themselves and are finding more certainties. The fact that they will play the derby on the fourth game day and that both have started well, will allow them to ignore about the standings, there will be less constraints.

“Whoever will win, however, will benefit in self-esteem.”

The 43-year-old Italian commented on the importance of Swedish veteran Zlatan Ibrahimovic to the Rossoneri. The former Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona striker has recently recovered from COVID-19.

“I don’t think so. There are many variables, the derby is not a predictable match. That said, Ibrahimovic’s return will be fundamental for his teammates.

“I played with Ibrahimovic and I know how important it can be to face a match with someone like him on the pitch, it makes them approach the challenge in a different way.”

Finally, Ambrosini spoke about whether it is possible for both Inter to win the Scudetto and for AC Milan to qualify for the Champions League this season.

“It’s always difficult to make such a prediction, I don’t know how to answer.

“However, I can certainly say that both are equipped to achieve their goals, both from the point of view of staff and their work on the pitch. The Champions League for Milan and the Scudetto for Inter are within their reach.”

The return of the 39-year-old Ibrahimovic, who is contracted to the Rossoneri until the end of the season, is crucial for Stefano Pioli. The veteran scored in his first return to the derby last season and will be hoping to outdo former teammate Romelu Lukaku, who scored in both derby meetings last campaign.