Former AC Milan midfielder Cristian Brocchi believes Inter Milan will enter the next Derby della Madonnina clash as the favourites.

In recent years, the Nerazzurri have often finished ahead of their rivals in the Serie A standings.

They have also dominated the direct clashes, except last season, when the Rossoneri defied the odds the beat their foes in three different competitions: Serie A, Coppa Italia and the Italian Super Cup.

This season, Milan have managed to considerably reduce the gap. In fact, the two clubs are on par in points after the first 10 rounds of the season, setting up what should be a thrilling edition of the Derby della Madonnina.

The clash will take place after the international break, with Inter playing the host’s role.

As one of the most anticipated sporting events on the calendar year, the Milan Derby always attracts an immeasurable number of punters, with sports fans flocking to place wagers on their favourite team. And as long as Hakan Calhanoglu is taking part in the contest, the Turkish fans certainly won’t miss the action, and a large section of them will be keen to place bets, also known as merc oyunlari, with many likely to pick their national team captain.

But despite Milan’s undoubted improvement this season, Brocchi remains reluctant to back his former club.

Cristian Brocchi Tips Inter To Beat AC Milan In The Derby Della Madonnina

The 49-year-old represented both San Siro outfits during his playing days. But while he only had a brief stint with the Nerazzurri, Milan is the club he was mostly associated with throughout his career.

Moreover, Brocchi also served as the Rossoneri’s head coach for a brief period following Sinisa Mihajlovic’s sacking in April 2016.

And yet, the once-combative midfielder admits that Inter should have the upper hand, as they remain the strongest team in Italy.

“It’s difficult to make any predictions at this early stage,” said Brocchi in his interview with La Repubblica via FcInterNews.

“But I’ve been saying since the start of the season that Inter are the strongest team on paper in Serie A this year.

Nevertheless, the Milano native didn’t completely rule out a victory for his former club. He even believes they can compete for the Scudetto.

“But Milan can also win. I’m not only talking about the Derby, but also the Scudetto title.”

Before heading to the international break, Milan will travel to take on Parma on Saturday, while Inter will host Lazio on Sunday.