Juventus director of sport Fabio Paratici insists Antonio Conte on the Inter bench doesn’t add extra spice. “There’s always rivalry in the Derby d’Italia.”
It kicks off at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT), click here for the line-ups and LIVEBLOG.
Juventus director of sport Fabio Paratici insists Antonio Conte on the Inter bench doesn’t add extra spice. “There’s always rivalry in the Derby d’Italia.”
It kicks off at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT), click here for the line-ups and LIVEBLOG.
“I know Antonio well, he’s a great Coach and professional. I’ve been at Juventus for 10 years, we’ve played about 20 Inter-Juve games, it’s the Derby d’Italia and there is always rivalry, no matter who is on the bench.
“We expect a wonderful game and hope to enjoy the spectacle,” Paratici told Sky Sport Italia.
The director also faced questions about the surprise pick from Maurizio Sarri, who starts Paulo Dybala rather than Gonzalo Higuain.
“I’ve said repeatedly since the summer that Dybala is Juve’s Number 10 and was wanted by many big clubs. So was Higuain, who has a remarkable scoring record.
“There’s nothing strange in this decision. It’s up to Sarri and you’d have to ask him.”
With Giorgio Chiellini injured – but still at San Siro as a non-playing captain tonight – Matthijs de Ligt is getting more regular playing time than expected.
“De Ligt is a great player, was voted best defender in the Champions League last season, despite the fact he is only 19 years old, an important detail that people tend to forget.
“He is already a great player, he will get even better and is settling in well.”