Former Inter and Juventus” data-scaytid=”1″>Juventus Coach Giovanni Trapattoni cast his eye over today’s Derby d’Italia, advising Antonio Conte to “stay in Serie A for a few years.”
Former Inter and Juventus Coach Giovanni Trapattoni cast his eye over today’s Derby d’Italia, advising Antonio Conte to “stay in Serie A for a few years.”
The two rival clubs go head-to-head this afternoon at 14.00 GMT, click here for a match preview.
“Inter-Juve and Bayern Munich-Juventus can be defined absolute classics of Serie A and the Champions League,” the Republic of Ireland manager told Eurosport.
“Games like this are won thanks to details, as those are what make the difference. Why did I move from Juventus to Inter in 1986? I had already revamped that team three times and wanted to challenge myself against a new reality.
“Inter gave me different motivation and I just wanted a new experience. I must confess, when I faced Juventus for the first time as an Inter Coach, I was chatting to Michel Platini and without realising I sat on the Juventus bench. Force of habit.”
Trapattoni won titles with both clubs – six at Juve, one record-breaking Scudetto with Inter – and is keeping tight-lipped on today’s game.
“I never liked making predictions. It will be a very open game with an uncertain result.”
The Nerazzurri have been struggling recently and Trap was asked about the rumours Andrea Stramaccioni will make way for Jose Mourinho’s return.
“I don’t think Andrea has lost his way. His Inter still needs reinforcements, but so far he has done well, giving the team shape. I am sure that thanks to him Inter will be able to identify the right buys for next season.
“I don’t think Mourinho will return, nor does Massimo Moratti genuinely intend to bring him back. It seems inevitable that the papers talk about Mourinho whenever one of his former clubs is going through a bad patch.”
Juventus are top of the Serie A table and through to the Champions League quarter-finals, but Conte expressed his irritation with the pressure in Italy and hinted at a move abroad.
“He has a strong side with a great collective and a clear and effective style of football. Antonio’s work is excellent and he should continue with this team.
“Many years ago I was a young Coach achieving success and I had someone whispering in my ear that I should change country, even if at that time it was unusual,” continued Trap.
“When I told a friend that I was going to Bayern Munich, he said I should watch out, as the more forests you travel in, the more wolves you find. He was right. Going abroad is a great unknown and before taking that step you need to have a lot of experience in Italy.
“I thought long and hard before leaving Serie A, so I suggest Conte do the same…”