Inter Milan defender Stefan de Vrij feels that a win against Juventus would “mean a lot for the atmosphere” around the Nerazzurri.
The Dutchman spoke to Italian broadcaster Sky Sport Italia, via FCInterNews, ahead of this evening’s Serie A showdown with the Bianconeri.
The Derby d’Italia against Juventus is always one of the biggest matches of Inter’s season.
The rivalry between the Nerazzurri and the Bianconeri is certainly one of the biggest in Italian football.
Moreover, there is generally a feeling that the fixture is one with important implications in the Serie A title race. That is certainly the case this time out, with both teams right near the top of the table.
Wins over Juventus have often proven hard to come by for Inter in Serie A in recent years.
But last season, the Nerazzurri got a hugely significant victory over the Bianconeri. That win in February was an absolutely crucial moment along the way to Inter’s Serie A title win.
And three points against Juventus this evening would certainly have a similar effect.
Inter defender de Vrij said before the match that “Winning would mean a lot for us.”
“We know how important this match is for us, for the fans, and for the whole atmosphere around the club,” he continued.
“We’re playing at home, in front of our fans.”
“We’ll do everything we can to put in a great performance and win,” de Vrij said.
De Vrij then admitted that “There’s still a lot for us to improve on.”
“We’re working together to do so,” the 32-year-old continued.
De Vrij said that “Tonight will be an excellent opportunity for us the show our growth.”
“I think we have to focus on ourselves,” the Inter defender argued. “We depend on ourselves, we have to put our game and our ideas into practice.”