Legendary former Inter striker Julio Cruz has reminisced about the second Derby della Madonnina in the 2006/07 season ahead of tomorrow’s first Milan derby of the 2020/21 Serie A season.
Inter lost the first derby that season 4-3 but got their revenge the second time the sides met as they secured themselves a 2-1 win. Inter fell behind shortly before half time but Cruz pulled Inter level on the 55th minute and Zlatan Ibrahimovic put Inter ahead 20 minutes later with what proved to be the winning goal.
“I have goosebumps thinking about the derby. I remember when I came on in the second half and scored immediately. It was a unique sensation, impossible to describe those sensations,” he explained in the newly released episode of Inter’s official club podcast.
He then reflected on the Inter team of that time that he was part of.
“The Inter of those years, thanks to Moratti, had a lot of top level players. Ibrahimovic, Crespo, Cruz, Martins and Recoba. Whenever it was your turn to play, you had to give your all to start. I say thank you to the Nerazzurri club for everything I have experienced.
“In that derby there was a very heartfelt celebration also because former Inter player Ronaldo had scored for AC Milan and the fans did not want to lose because of that goal.”
He also admitted that he was not angry with then Inter manager Roberto Mancini for not starting him in the match.
“If I was angry with Mancini? No, it was just an outburst, one of a few. I don’t want to remember it badly, but only 11 seconds passed between my entry onto the pitch and the goal. I really wanted to play that derby.”
The former Argentine national team player then went on to look ahead to tomorrow’s match between Inter and AC Milan.
“It will be very difficult, we were always up for it due to the fans. I remember when we played some matches without fans due to disqualification, it was very hard. You need to have a higher level of concentration, it’s not just any match. Here in Argentina everyone is waiting for this match too.”
In conclusion Cruz was asked if Alexis Sanchez could be the 12th man for Inter like he was.
“I hope so, for the good of Inter. In reality I considered myself one of many and not only the twelfth man. In a great club like Inter, nobody is a starter, all players are important, all starters, then the coach chooses from time to time. I hope Alexis plays many games as a starter and can do as well as he does when he comes on during the match.”
