Former Milan midfielder Antonio Nocerino doesn’t think that there are any favourites ahead of tomorrow’s Derby della Madonnina.
Inter currently sit top of the Serie A table after 23 matches, four points clear of the trailing Rossoneri. Stefano Pioli’s side can close the gap down to one point with a win tomorrow, although the Nerazzurri do have a game in hand.
Speaking to Calciomercato, Nocerino first discussed which team is the favourite for the derby.
“In the derby there are no favourites. It’s not a cliche, I assure you. Between Milan and Inter there is no weaker team, I have played a few derbies. Only with the Torino shirt did I start as an underdog against Juve.”
He did not think that the Rossoneri’s absences will make a difference in the match.
“It must be a stimulus for whoever takes their place. The great cycles also begin with overcoming these types of difficulties.”
Nocerino touched on how Milan should look to approach the derby.
“Let’s start from the assumption that Inter are still the strongest team and Milan have the handicap of so many absences. A victory for the Nerazzurri would give enthusiasm and conviction to Inzaghi’s team, which remains the great favourite for the final victory.
“Very often we focus only on the starting eleven, but in this football of the five substitutions it’s good to underline the importance of who is called to replace them. In a match like this you have to prepare the whole squad to the maximum.
“Even those who know they are not starting must be ready because two minutes are enough to change everything. In this you can also see the coach’s hand, who has to make the right choice.”
He commented on Pioli’s possible decision to play Franck Kessie as a trequartista in the game.
“I don’t know if Kessie will play in the first half, but I can see it as a choice because it will be a very physical match and you need people who can make themselves felt in certain areas of the pitch.
“In this case Diaz will have to prepare for the game as if he already knew he was going to be a starter, the former Real Madrid man can become important as the game progresses.”
The former Milan midfielder spoke about which two players he’s keeping an eye on in tomorrow’s derby, Milan’s Sandro Tonali and Inter’s Nicolo Barella.
“I’m crazy about two players, in the true sense of the word: Tonali and Barella. I’m happy for Sandro who is taking his revenge after the crazy criticism of last season.
“Guys, we’re talking about a midfielder who knows how to do everything, he has strength, intensity, presses, creates play.”
Finally, Nocerino felt that Tonali should be considered a total midfielder.
“Absolutely. Let’s not forget that he has an important kick, he kicks hard at goal, takes free kicks and corners. It’s a good sign for the national team. We have to add him and the return of Zaniolo to the group of European champions, not bad, right?”
Nocerino a CM: 'L'#Inter non è favorita, il #Milan ha super #Tonali. Ma #Kessie trequartista non mi convince: non è il Boateng dell'ultimo scudetto' https://t.co/6Hdgsi3zCH pic.twitter.com/EZ6anNavC5
— calciomercato.com (@cmdotcom) February 4, 2022
NOCERINO is the bomber we’re missing.
I still remember what a bargain he was.