Like every derby, the game between AC Milan and Inter tonight will feature several fascinating individual duels across the pitch.
We picked out five of these contests in our key battles piece, while La Gazzetta dello Sport (seen below) have also highlighted some of the duels between players that could determine the outcome of the derby.
The first will be the one that will be seen on the right flank of the Rossoneri and the left flank of the Nerazzurri: Alexis Saelemaekers versus Federico Dimarco. Both are attacking wing-backs (two goals and three assists for the Belgian, six goals and 14 assists for the Italian.
Tonight they will also have to be careful in defence too, having to mark their opposite number. Saelemaekers relies heavily on runs and dribbling, while Dimarco relies on his powerful left foot. Both are beloved by their own fans and hated by their opponents, perhaps the best representation of this derby.
In midfield, Adrien Rabiot will face Nicolò Barella. The Frenchman has immediately become a cornerstone of Allegri’s side, while the Italian has long been a cornerstone of Inter. Despite their contrasting form (Rabiot increasingly decisive, Barella less so in the last two weeks), much is expected of both.
The final big showdown in the match will be between Luka Modric and Piotr Zielinski, who will face off in the centre of midfield. Both will, as always, manage the build-up phase but also protect the defensive department too.
The Croatian has been the beacon of their team since he arrived, while the Pole has been reborn since Chivu took over as coach. Their characteristics are very different , but both are having a great season and will have the opportunity to further demonstrate their respective qualities tonight.
Dimarco has tremendous stats, why didn’t they sell him, the way we sold Reindeers and ToeNail.