Chivu: Derby adds extra motivation, but it is not decisive

Inter head coach Cristian Chivu spoke at a press conference ahead of the Derby della Madonnina against Milan. Chivu accepted that the derby motivates players even more. However, he stressed that the result of this match will not be decisive in the Serie A title race. League leaders Inter will take the field away at 19:45 GMT on Saturday evening.

Although Inter won both the Scudetto and the Coppa Italia last season, they lost both of their league matches against Milan in the 2025-26 season. The Nerazzurri have not won any of their last seven meetings with the Rossoneri. They lost five of those matches and two ended in draws. Inter's most recent derby win came in April 2024.

Chivu said his players are ready and do not need an additional incentive. He said Milan are a technically strong side, so Inter must stay compact and defend in depth. In his view, finding the right balance between legs and mind, and knowing when to make a move, will be critical.

When asked about the seven-match winless run, Chivu said they would treat the derby like any other league game. He also argued that some past results can be explained by bad luck and momentary developments. He recalled that Milan won the first derby last year, then lost to Lazio in Rome. According to Chivu, only ten matches of the season have been played, and this single match will not define the story.