Former Milan and Inter Coach Giovanni Trapattoni thinks that the winners of this weekend’s Derby della Madonnina will have saved their season.
The veteran boss and former Milan player discussed both teams’ struggles with Tuttosport, but refused to predict a winner.
“This is an anxious and ill-tempered derby but whoever wins will save their season,” he said.
Former Milan and Inter Coach Giovanni Trapattoni thinks that the winners of this weekend’s Derby della Madonnina will have saved their season.
The veteran boss and former Milan player discussed both teams’ struggles with Tuttosport, but refused to predict a winner.
“This is an anxious and ill-tempered derby but whoever wins will save their season,” he said.
“It’s the hardest match to predict – when I was top of the League I’d lose and when I was mid-table I’d win – but as usual the team that has the least fear of losing will prevail.”
The 76-year-old was in favour of a reported Chinese takeover of Milan, believing foreign investment to be welcome in a cash-strapped League.
“In Italy we need money and it would be good if this capital comes in, but the important thing is that it isn’t wasted.
“It’s fundamental that the people who invest have a sporting culture and it seems to me that [Erick] Thohir knows how to operate in the world of sport. If Berlusconi sells, I hope that the new owners introduce a serious project.”
Trap also gave his support to under-fire Milan Coach Pippo Inzaghi, who has had to cope with incessant rumours that he will be replaced at the end of the season.
“Undoubtedly he has found it difficult to get past certain obstacles. At Milan they don’t just ask you for results but entertainment as well, and combining the two isn’t simple.
“Pippo has his ideas and with time he will perfect them. He has often relied on solid, reliable players, but the Rossoneri fans were used to the Dutch players and Kaka – it’s not easy for them to swallow.
“He was chosen and so it’s right that the club is still supporting him, you get toughened up in this league.
“I think that the club must trust him, but you can’t expect Inzaghi to make fine wine out of turnips.”
Roberto Mancini has also struggled since his return to the Inter bench earlier this season, but Trapattoni backed Mancio to turn things around.
“Sometimes when you go abroad and are watching Italian football, you think that you can change things with one click.
“Mancini was away from Serie A for many seasons and when he returned he came across difficult football and perfectionists.
“In England the games aren’t a continual tactical exam, but here they are. Roberto must rediscover the right coordinates, but he isn’t a fool and he will know how to find the players best suited to his ideas.”