Inzaghi: "Need to perform well, we want to defend the trophy"

The Supercoppa Italiana is fast approaching as Inter face AC Milan in Riyadh on Wednesday at 20:00 CET, with the season's first trophy up for grabs. After the win over Hellas, The Nerazzurri flew to the Arab capital on Sunday, had their first training session on Monday at Prince Faisal bin Fahd Stadium, and also met local fans.

On the eve of the game, Simone Inzaghi held the game's pre-match presser. Here's what he had to say:

How are Inter heading into the game? "We know how important the game is, it's a derby and a final so it has even further importance. The first trophy of the season is up for grabs and we want to perform well."

Is this a derby of revenge? "I consider it a game to win a trophy, not everyone are able to get here. It's a reward from last season, and we know what it represents. Last year, we won it and we want to defend it with all of our will".

What have the derby defeats given you? "More desire, because the derby is something different to other matches. We had many derbies last season, and won some and lost some. They are always unique games decided by moments, this season we lost undeservedly: in the first half, AC Milan were better, but after the break we didn't deserve to be defeated".

Is there a secret for the way Inter played against Napoli and Barcelona? "It always depends on the opponents, I am more than happy with the way 2023 has started; we've played several games, won three and drawn one, and if you took away Monza it would be clean sweep."

In 2023 you have beaten Napoli, but in the other games you suffered a little, which Inter will we see tomorrow? "Football is not an exact science. We've looked back at all the games, and apart from a few injuries, the lads have played well, been in the games and won a few. Tomorrow's a final so there's no consideration about the schedule, tiredness, injuries, etc. It's a massive game."

Will tomorrow's game influence the rest of the season? "We'll have to wait and see. I remember last year that we enjoyed the Supercoppa final win over Juventus in the right way, because a few days later we were back playing away to Bergamo. Football never stops, three days later were talking about a 0-0 draw in Bergamo against Atalanta. We need to just take one game at a time, now we've got AC Milan, and we're preparing for it in the best way we can. The players needs to work hard for their teammates because in these types of games it's the only way you end the game without regrets."

Both sides have struggled defensively recently. "Both sides have top striking departments, we know we have to play as a team because when we talk about goals being conceded then it's the defence's responsibility. Instead, Inter must work as a unit both defensively and offensively, you only win big games in this manner."

What makes playing a derby special here in Riyadh? "It's a derby, a massive game and a final, and it's rarely happened in history. The derby in iteself is special, and it'll be even more this time around."

How is Lukaku? "He trained partially with the group yesterday, the hope is that he can work without pain, which he wasn't able to do in the week after Parma. We'll see how he goes, if he isn't fully fit for tomorrow, we hope he'll be available for selection for Empoli, which for us will be a real bonus."

What makes the difference in these types of games? What do Inter need to be aware of? "I've been lucky to be involved in many finals as a player and a Head Coach. They are unique games with lots of twists and turns, and the teams need to know how to manage certain moments in the game. My wish is that we remain in the game. AC Milan have lots of quality that has evolved, and is doing very well in the league, like us, as well as in the Champions League, like us. They got knocked out of the Coppa Italia, which can happen against a strong outfit and after playing so many games in a short space of time."

How is Darmian? How are these finals played? "Finals are unique games: you need to be on the top of your game, not make errors, work hard, be determined and focused, and play with intensity. Darmian is doing well, he's a great player. Dumfries came back from the World Cup with a few issues so he's one of a few doubts we're working hard to resolve."