Ex AC Milan & England Head Coach Praises Italy Starlet & Gives Selection Verdict For Inter Milan Derby Defence
Fabio Capello has seen more than enough Milan derbies to know their weight, and the former AC Milan and England manager offered detailed analysis on Sky Sport ahead of Sunday’s clash.
Capello described the Derby della Madonnina as “the most difficult match to play”, explaining that the pressure around the city makes it unique.
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“There is no need to talk too much to the players, motivation is already high and you risk doing damage,” he noted. via FCInterNews.
Capello believes Massimiliano Allegri has already brought structure back to Milan, highlighting the return of Adrien Rabiot as a decisive element.
“Rabiot can restore balance to a team that would otherwise suffer from the high quality of Inter,” he said, while also highlighting the threat of Rafael Leão and Christian Pulisic in transition.
Inter Vs Milan – Capello supports Chivu and Esposito in the Derby
MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 21: Francesco Pio Esposito of Internazionale reacts during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and US Sassuolo Calcio at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on September 21, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
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Looking back on Cristian Chivu’s first derby as Inter coach, Capello expressed his long-standing admiration.
“He has charisma, seriousness and intelligence. He can guide Inter well,” he said.
And when asked choose between Francesco Acerbi and Yann Bisseck for the defense center, his verdict was clear: “I prefer Acerbi. He is the only one with this level of intelligence and personality.”
Capello reserved particular praise for Francesco Pio Espositocalling the Inter starlet a “player with a big future” and praising his movement and vision.
While acknowledging that the youngster still needs to hone his instincts in front of goal, he added that Chivu faces “a real dilemma” over whether to start after his goal for Italy.
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With five replacements available, Capello expects to see him play in some capacity.
The former Milan boss also highlighted Inter’s attacking depth, calling it a rare luxury. “All Inter’s attackers move in a synchronized manner.
It’s a nice problem for Chivu,” he said, the kind of problem any coach would love before a derby.
