Napoli have started their Scudetto defence well, but the Serie A title might return to Milan this season. Both Inter and AC Milan are strong contenders, having adapted swiftly to managerial changes.
Inter, under Cristian Chivu, lead the table with 24 points from 11 matches, just ahead of Roma on goal difference. Meanwhile, Milan trails by only one point.
Inter’s recent form has been impressive. They secured a 2-0 win over Lazio before the international break, marking their fourth consecutive victory in all competitions since a loss to Napoli. This defeat was their sole setback in the last 12 matches across all competitions. During this period, Inter scored 28 goals and conceded only seven.
Milan has shown resilience under Massimiliano Allegri, going unbeaten in their last 11 games across all competitions. This streak includes seven wins and four draws. Their defensive strength is notable, with five clean sheets in Serie A this season. Goalkeeper Mike Maignan has played a crucial role with a save percentage of 73.5%.
The Derby della Madonnina often favours Milan recently. Last season, they remained unbeaten against Inter in five encounters across different competitions. Milan won three times and drew twice during these meetings. This performance contrasts with their previous six derby losses.
Key Players to Watch
Lautaro Martinez is a key player for Inter, having scored nine goals in 20 appearances against Milan in all competitions. He aims to join an elite group by reaching double figures in Derby della Madonnina goals. For Milan, Rafael Leao could be pivotal in attack, especially if they counter-attack effectively against Inter.
Milan’s ambitions for the 2025-26 season focus on returning to the Champions League rather than winning the title outright. However, if their defensive solidity continues, they might exceed expectations. Only Roma and Lazio have kept more clean sheets than Milan this season.
Opta Insights and Predictions
According to Opta insights, Inter are favourites for victory as the ‘home’ side in this derby with a 47.8% chance of winning according to pre-match simulations. Milan has a 26.2% chance of victory while draws account for 26%. In terms of season predictions, Inter is favoured for the title in 57.8% of simulations.
Inter has struggled against top teams like Milan recently; they haven’t won any of their last 11 matches against Milan, Juventus or Napoli since April 2024. In contrast, Milan has won their last two ‘away’ derbies against Inter across all competitions.
The upcoming match at San Siro promises excitement as both teams vie for supremacy at the top of Serie A standings after adapting well post-managerial changes earlier this year.