SHENZHEN – Inter have only just arrived in Shenzhen but preparations for tomorrow's meeting with AC Milan are already in full swing. Shortly after landing, the Nerazzurri made their way to Longgang Stadium for their pre-match training session before Roberto Mancini and Samuele Longo met with the media to preview the first derby of the season.
The coach opened the press conference by discussing his attacking options. "At the moment we only have two or three forwards plus the youngsters so we're working on bringing in a couple of new faces. I don't know what we'll do this season but we want to play decent football – that's for sure," he said.
Tomorrow's International Champions Cup clash with the Rossoneri will be a special occasion for Mancini, as he will be facing his friend Sinisa Mihajlovic in the opposite dugout.
"Sinisa is one of my best friends away from the game. We played together, then he was a player under me before working as my assistant. I'm happy for him and I'm happy that I get to meet him in this first derby of the season."
The manager was then asked about the future prospects for his own team and Mihajlovic's. Is tomorrow's game a taster for the top-of-the-table derbies we'll see next season? Mancini replied confidently: "I'm sure both Milan clubs will get back challenging for the top honours."
He went on to reveal that Longo will be getting a taste of derby action tomorrow before stressing the importance of this match, even if it is a pre-season friendly.
"Longo is here because he's going to start the game. We believe in him and we hope he can stay with us.
"This is a very important derby. It's hugely important for our fans here, and for us it's important to keep getting minutes under our belts."
Samuele Longo also spoke about his joy at being on tour with the Nerazzurri and his determination to seize this chance to impress the coach.
"It's a great opportunity for me. I'm relaxed about everything and giving my all in training. I'm just enjoying the whole experience because I consider myself lucky to be here.
"Every player wants to be in the starting line-up. If I get the chance I'll do my best to grab it with both hands," the youngster declared.
Tomorrow's International Champions Cup encounter with AC Milan kicks off at 20:00 local time (14:00 CEST). Follow the game with us on @Inter_en.
