Italian journalist Matteo Marani feels that the relative tiredness and rest of Inter and AC Milan could play a major role in the upcoming Milan derby.

Speaking to Italian broadcaster Sky Sport Italia, Marani gave the view that the match could be decided by which team comes in more prepared and refreshed following the international break.

Both the Nerazzurri and the Rossoneri were showing signs of fatigue as they played their last couple matches heading into the international break, having experienced a packed and draining January schedule.

Over the break, the players for each team will have the chance to rest and train to get back to their best form, and the energy and concentration levels of each team are likely to play a significant role in the match.

Marani feels that it will be worth watching out for which of the two city rivals has better used the break to recover their best form for the massive match.

“We’ll have to see which side gained more from the break,” he said. “Inter needed the break, they looked weary towards the end.”

“But Milan were also not at their best before the break,” he continued. “I think they are both coherent clubs.”

Marani added that “If Inter wins the derby, they also have a game in hand. It would send a big message to their rivals.”