Faouzi Ghoulam has high expectations ahead of Sunday’s Serie A showdown between Inter and AC Milan.

Speaking to Corriere della Sera via FCInterNews, Ghoulam also praised Nerazzurri teenage sensation Francesco Pio Esposito.

San Siro sets the stage for the latest edition of the iconic Derby della Madonnina this weekend.

Indeed, Inter and Milan go head-to-head in an early Scudetto six-pointer, with only two points separating the teams before the kick-off.

Riding on a three-game winning streak, Inter headed into the international break as joint Serie A leaders with Roma.

Meanwhile, Milan slipped to third in the standings after drawing three of their last four top-flight outings.

However, the Rossoneri will take the field in high spirits, boasting a five-match unbeaten run against the Nerazzurri.

Furthermore, Cristian Chivu prepares for his touchline debut in this iconic fixture.

Yet, the 45-year-old is intimately familiar with this contest, having faced Milan as a defender during his playing career.

Faouzi Ghoulam Delivers Lofty Inter vs AC Milan Expectations

Francesco Pio Esposito Inter Milan
BARI, ITALY – AUGUST 16: Francesco Pio Esposito of Inter during Pre-Season Friendly match between FC Internazionale and Olympiacos FC at Stadio San Nicola on August 16, 2025 in Bari, Italy. (Photo by Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images)

Asked what he expects from Sunday’s derby, Ghoulam replied: “It will be the best in recent years; I imagine it will also be fun.

“Allegri is a strategist. Chivu is showing what he’s made of; he knows how to rotate the squad for Champions League commitments.

“The result will give meaning to the season, and for Milan, it will be a form of compensation.”

Then, Ghoulam also heaped praise on Francesco Pio Esposito, who impressed during the international break.

Indeed, the 20-year-old scored in both of Italy’s FIFA World Cup qualifiers this month against Moldova and Norway.

Unfortunately, his opening goal against the Scandinavians only served as a consolation, as Gennaro Gattuso’s side lost 4-1 at San Siro.

“Pio Esposito is very strong,” Ghoulam continued. “At a time when Italy produces few talents, let’s let him work without pressure.

“Let’s give him time.”