AC Milan have lost their last five derby encounters with Inter in all competitions, most recently conceding five goals against the Nerazzurri. In a recent interview, Ismael Bennacer shared his thoughts on the struggles.
The Rossoneri’s last derby success came last season, as they won the first fixture by three goals to two. Since then, however, it has been a tough ride for Stefano Pioli’s side with five consecutive losses. And in most of those games, it hasn’t even been close.
In his interview with Instant Foot, which you can read in full here, Bennacer was asked about the derby struggles. He explained that Milan aren’t focused on the stats of the fixture, but that perhaps Inter are stronger in certain aspects of the game.
“We haven’t actually been affected by the statistics. We have prepared well for all the matches. In the last match (5-1, editor’s note) I was injured and wasn’t there, but I spoke to my teammates and the coach before the match. Honestly, it’s difficult because you give everything on the pitch. It’s a thing of the past now.
“We’ve played against them a lot: maybe at a certain moment some players were more tired, maybe they are stronger in some aspects. For example, they always score early. These are things we have to work on. Scudetto fight? Milan and Inter will fight until the end and we always meet, even in the Champions League like last season. It’s truly the most complicated rivalry,” he stated.
Bennacer is currently recovering from an injury but he should definitely be back for the reverse fixture against Inter, scheduled for April. The midfielder’s comeback should take place next month and Milan can only hope that he will avoid any other injuries.
