One galling aspect of Milan hosting the 2016 Champions League Final is that neither of the city’s famous clubs have the opportunity to compete for the crown. Such was the struggles felt on and off the pitch last season, both Inter and Milan were left battling just to finish in the top half of the table. Europe was a distant dream.
In April the Milanese duo fought out a drab Derby della Madonnina draw, a microcosm of their flailing seasons. A Derby played in one of football’s great theatres – San Siro is referred to La Scala Del Calcio after Milan’s renowned 18th century opera house – was treated to a performance by cast of understudies.
Five months on an eager city is abuzz with enthusiasm. There’s a sense both clubs are heading down the right path. Summer revolutions in both halves of the city leave the pair hopeful of returning to the continent. But it’s still early days.
Sinisa Mihajlovic was furious with his Rossoneri squad following a recent friendly win over Mantova. That was after a mixed opening to Serie A. Milan lost at Fiorentina and were patchy in defeating Empoli.
The blue half has more to smile about. Two wins from two was the start Roberto Mancini was after, but that doesn’t tell the whole tale. Stevan Jovetic has netted all three goals to date, including two winners struck in or after the 89th minute.
Respective results would suggest Nerauzzurri favouritism this Sunday, but not so according to Derby veteran and Inter staff member Dejan Stankovic. “Milan have beat us twice recently, first in China and then also in the TIM Trophy. They are the favourites.”
Two players have succumbed to injuries picked up on international duty, with Rossoneri midfielder Andrea Bertolacci and Inter’s Brazilian defender Joao Miranda both ruled out of what would have been a debut Madonnina appearance.
But there’s plenty to look forward to. Inter boast the potentially frightening partnership of Jovetic and Mauro Icardi, while Felipe Melo and Ivan Perisic are set for their debuts. Mihajlovic will count on explosive strike duo Carlos Bacca and Luiz Adriano. Then there’s a certain Mario Balotelli waiting in the wings.
A win adds an early psychological edge for two sides sensing the path to return to former glory is ahead of them. The Derby is back on the grand stage. Bring on act one.
