Fabio Capello has issued a clear warning to Juventus ahead of their crucial clash with Inter, describing the Derby d’Italia as “an extremely important test.” In his editorial for La Gazzetta dello Sport (as quoted by ilbianconero) , Capello highlighted the significance of the encounter not just for the points at stake but also for gauging the true strength of both teams.
Capello wrote, “The Derby d’Italia will be a double test for Juventus and for Inter, beyond the points up for grabs at the Allianz Stadium – it’s an extremely important match for both teams. Above all for the Signora: it’s a test to understand if this Juventus side is genuinely ready to compete for the Scudetto, because the squad is now well-drilled, even though there are some new arrivals.”
Despite those new faces, Capello believes Juventus now have a solid base. He emphasised, “Juventus have a good basic team, with Igor Tudor having had time to work with the players and establish his ideas. However, the most important aspect on the pitch is the recovery of defenders Gatti and Bremer. Last year, let’s not forget, that defensive line was tormented by fitness problems. For the Juventus coach, this is a very good foundation on which to build the rest.”
Turning to the attack, Capello named several key options for Tudor, singling out recent arrivals and established stars. “In attack, Tudor has several players at his disposal: Yildiz, Vlahovic, as well as the new signings David and Openda, who have started the season with real determination.”
On the Inter side, Capello reserved high praise for Manu Akanji, calling him “one of the most important defensive reinforcements of the Nerazzurri’s market.” He added, “Inter have signed a defender I really like, Akanji: with him, Inter have managed to strengthen a team that already knew exactly how to handle itself at the back.”
Yet according to Capello, the match may serve as a “recovery test” for Inter, while for Juventus it will be decisive for their title ambitions. “For Juventus, the possible absence of Conceiçao should not be underestimated,” he warned. “He would have offered one-on-one ability, especially down Inter’s left flank, where there are defensive issues. Conceiçao could have been an extra card.”
Capello concluded that the Derby d’Italia is “fundamental for both sides, but especially for Juventus, who have the chance to prove whether they’re truly ready to fight for the title.”
