Derby Calm: Kevo’s Plan to Outsmart Milan Without the White-Knuckle Nerves

Derby Mindset: No Favorite in Inter vs Milan

Inter Milan coach Cristian Kevo emphasized that there is "no favorite" in the upcoming Derby della Madonnina with Milan, as both teams chase top spot in Serie A’s Week 12.

Inter will be without Dutch right-back Denzel Dumfries, sidelined by an ankle injury sustained with the Netherlands, while Marcus Thuram is expected to return to the starting XI after the international break.

Kevo told a press conference highlighted by Football Italia that the derby is a magical fixture and that fans deserve a day free of taunts among friends—proof that football can still be great when the stakes are high.

Inter sit top of the table on 24 points, level with Roma, but they have not beaten Milan in their last five competitive meetings.

Meanwhile Milan occupy third with 22 points, level with Napoli, yet the Rossoneri have won only two of their last five league games.

Strategic Outlook: Focus, Calm, and Readiness for Anything

Kevo added that the schedule is tight, but a derby remains a separate test. They must enter every game with the same resolve, because the league runs 38 rounds.

He will coach his first derby as a manager, having lived through the atmosphere previously as a player, while Massimiliano Allegri returns to Milan after a decade away.

The Romanian coach said: I know how derby weeks feel and how the narrative can get blown out of proportion. I hope for an entertaining match that showcases Italian football well, as the world watches.

Allegri had begun the mind games by claiming Inter as the big favorites, to which Kevo replied: there are no derby favorites. We must motivate our team in every match, read moments to win more duels, and dictate the tempo in our favor without losing balance.

We know Milan's threats on the counter, but that doesn't mean we should alter our approach. We must be ready for different scenarios and maintain composure. Inter have stumbled in big games this season, while Milan have dropped points to smaller sides but excel under pressure in big clashes.

Kevo praised Allegri's winning mentality and noted he is among the most decorated coaches in the league. He emphasized that his own players must enjoy the game and avoid excessive pressure, especially with Lautaro Martinez back from the break and ready to contribute, using his experience and drive to anchor the attack.

Kevo also spoke about trying to shift some Italian football concepts: the game is magical because it is the hardest. Rest and time with family amid the packed schedule are important, and his approach isn’t about perfection but mental relief for players.

He concluded: Worry blocks your true potential. Italian football is fiercely competitive and beautiful, but we can add even more. The press may be a routine presence abroad, yet you fans are more passionate and should smile more, without fretting about goals or decisive matches. Football remains the best thing about this country.

Punchline 1: If calm were a superpower, Kevo would be wearing a cape with the Inter crest.

Punchline 2: Derby day math: 1 part tactics, 1 part serenity, 2 parts hoping the ball doesn’t get stage fright.