Massimo Ambrosini has predicted a ‘battle’ in Sunday’s derby, praising the work Massimiliano Allegri has done at AC Milan.
Ambrosini rather remarkably played in 27 Milan derbies and yet scored his only goal against Inter for another team. It was during the 1997-98 season, when the young midfielder was on loan at Vicenza, before a glittering career with the Rossoneri began.
The Italian spent 18 seasons with the Diavolo between 1995 and 2013, racking up nearly 500 appearances and scoring 36 goals across all competitions for the club. He became a Hall of Fame member, and won a total of 12 major trophies before his emotional exit.
Ambrosini spoke to La Gazzetta dello Sport in an interview published two days before the game at San Siro, and he offered his preview on what could well be last chance saloon in terms of the Serie A title race.
Do you remember that goal against Inter.
“It was my first goal in Serie A. My first [derby] was on March 10, 1996, I came off the bench and we lost 1-0: I have the image of Branca’s goal in my head and I still feel the tension.”
You then had time to make up for it. Which derby was best?
“The two Champions League matches in 2003. But in general, all the derbies have been an incredible experience: the two stands, the noise of the stadium, the adrenaline…”
Leao called it a matter of life and death…
“From a sporting perspective, it is, at least for Milan, who are chasing. Winning would mean getting back to within seven points of the top spot and putting some pressure on Inter.”
If so, would the title race be reopened?
“I say no, even though in football you can always dream. My Milan team recovered seven points from Lazio in seven games in 1999. But if you had asked me then how much I believed in the comeback, I probably would have answered like I do now (laughs).”
The Scudetto is the dream, the Champions League placed are the target. Do you agree with Allegri?
“Max has given Milan a new lease of life, starting with defensive solidity, which was the priority. That’s why I don’t think we’ll move from the 3-5-2. The mission of returning to the Champions League is within reach…”
Chivu, on the other hand, speaks of an Inter that is not being given its due credit…
“Cristian has changed his tune recently, adopting a more protective communication style than he did at the beginning. His work has been exceptional and wasn’t a given. The only downside is the elimination against Bodo.”
Where will the derby be decided?
“In midfield. I don’t expect a wide-open match, but rather a battle, especially in the middle. Perhaps decided by a surprise man.”
Who are you thinking of?
“Fofana. He’s been unlucky so far, far beyond his demerits. I like his attitude, and it shouldn’t be forgotten that he’s had to adapt to being a midfielder.”
On the other hand, it will probably be Pio Esposito’s first derby as a starter…
“He’s a serious, strong guy. I think everyone appreciates him because he conveys a desire to improve. I like him.”
Will the derbies of the future be a duel with Camarda?
“Let’s go slowly. Camarda is three years younger than Pio, and he still has an intermediate step to make. At his age, Esposito was still in the Primavera.”
