Former Inter defender Andrea Ranocchia believes the Nerazzurri enter tonight’s Derby d’Italia against Juventus as favourites.

Speaking to Tuttosport, via FCInterNews, Ranocchia said Inter arrive in stronger condition and hopes the match serves as “a showcase for football.”

He also praised Cristian Chivu’s work on the Nerazzurri bench.

“He’s a great coach who has made the sceptics change their minds,” Ranocchia said. “He is doing something extraordinary.”

At the same time, Ranocchia credited Luciano Spalletti for revitalising Juventus.

“He has lifted them from a difficult situation and given them an attractive style of play,” he noted.

Ranocchia Backs Inter To Beat Juventus

Cristian Chivu Inter Milan
MILAN, ITALY – DECEMBER 06: Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of FC Internazionale Milano, looks on prior to the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Como 1907 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on December 06, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Turning to defence, the former centre-back described Inter’s back line as the strongest in Italy.

“Bastoni is now one of the best central defenders in the world,” Ranocchia said. “With Bremer he is at the top in Serie A. Akanji is a guarantee. And Acerbi, who is my age, continues to deliver excellent performances.”

Looking ahead, Ranocchia also identified Sassuolo defender Tarik Muharemovic as a potential future Nerazzurri player.

“He is doing important things and looks ready for the step up to a big club,” he added. “He could be an Inter player.”

As a result, Ranocchia expects Inter’s strength, defensive solidity and momentum to give them the edge in one of Italian football’s most historic fixtures.