Inter ultras in the Curva Nord released a statement ahead of the derby with Milan explaining why they have ‘no rancour’ towards Milan Skriniar as he heads to PSG, instead blaming the club for ‘handling the situation badly.’
It kicks off at San Siro at 19.45 GMT.
You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens from today’s Serie A games on the LIVEBLOG.
The Nerazzurri go into this edition of the derby as favourites, especially after a dominant 3-0 victory over their rivals in Riyadh last month for the Supercoppa Italiana.
However, Skriniar has seen his captain’s armband revoked from now on after confirming he will not sign the new contract, so can leave for Paris Saint-Germain as a free agent in July.
“Even if the Skriniar chapter is now partially past history, we still want to make it known that Milan wanted to clarify with us the reasons that took him to change shirt at the end of the season, despite the affection he has always shown for Inter,” read the pamphlet handed out at the Stadio Meazza this evening.
“Skriniar explained to us that last summer the club told him he would be put on the market and against his wishes he’d have to work to find himself a new club.
“After receiving interest from PSG and certain that Inter were going to sell him, he was made an offer by PSG that, once Inter changed their minds, his club was unable to match.
“Milan tried to lower his demands for the contract extension and move towards Inter to help them out, even being ready to give up on several million euros.
“So if once again in summary the reasons of the wallet surpassed those of the heart, we still don’t feel right crucifying a player who contributed to so many great achievements, and we invite anyone to show respect for the professionalism he has shown during his time in Milano.
“Looking at everything, it’s fair to say that the whole Skriniar situation has been handled badly and we hope that at the very least it can serve as a lesson for the future of this club.
“We have decided to look forward with Inter always in our hearts and without rancour towards a player who rightly should no longer wear the captain’s armband, but still deserves our respect for always giving his best on the pitch.”
Skriniar has reportedly turned down a proposal worth €6m per season including bonuses to remain at Inter, amid suggestions PSG are ready to pay him over €9m per season.
