Henrickh Mkhitaryan Reflects on Inter Milan’s Derby d’Italia Defeat
Henrikh Mkhitaryan, a veteran midfielder with a storied career at both Arsenal and Manchester United, offered candid reflections on Inter Milan’s recent 1-0 loss to Juventus in the Derby d’Italia. Speaking to InterTV after the match, Mkhitaryan emphasized the intensity and historical significance of the rivalry between the two Italian giants. The Derby d’Italia is more than just a regular fixture; it’s a heated battle that stirs deep emotions on both sides. Despite the high stakes and the opportunity to go top of the Serie A table, Inter Milan fell short, a result that stung all the more given the context.
The Opportunity at Hand
The stage was set for Inter Milan to make a significant statement. A win would have not only bolster their morale but also put them one point clear of Napoli, who had slipped up against Lazio the previous day. Even a draw would have kept Inter within a point of the league leaders, maintaining the pressure and setting the stage for an exciting title race. However, football has a way of defying expectations, and Inter’s defeat felt like a missed opportunity of epic proportions. The loss was compounded by Francisco Conceicao’s decisive second-half goal, which sealed Juventus’s victory and left Inter fans and players alike disappointed.
Mkhitaryan on the Team’s Performance
Mkhitaryan highlighted a crucial aspect of the match: the Nerazzurri’s failure to capitalize on their chances. “We came here to win, we didn’t take advantage of our chances, and we paid for it,” he stated. The midfielder pointed out that Inter should have been more clinical in front of the goal, adding that perhaps they needed to be cooler under pressure. “But unfortunately, that’s how football is,” Mkhitaryan lamented. “When you don’t score, you lose matches.” His words underscored the fine line between success and failure in high-pressure situations, a lesson that Inter will have to take to heart moving forward.
The Impact of Juventus’s Transfer Window
The Armenian veteran acknowledged the changes at Juventus during the January transfer window, noting that the Turin side has brought in some new players. “Obviously they have changed,” he said. “But we shouldn’t talk about them.” Instead, Mkhitaryan emphasized the importance of focusing on Inter’s own game and matches. “We need to be more focused on our own game, and on our matches,” he continued. “Because when we do that we know what it takes to win matches.” This perspective reflects a seasoned player’s understanding that external factors, while significant, should not distract the team from their primary goal of performing at their best.
A Split in Performance
Mkhitaryan was quick to praise Inter’s first-half performance, describing it as “excellent.” “We created a lot of problems for them in the first half,” he noted. However, he admitted that the second half saw a noticeable drop in the team’s intensity and focus. “In the second half, we gave up a bit,” he conceded. The veteran stressed that despite this slip, it’s essential to remember the quality of the opposition. “But it’s not like we were playing against a weak or poor team,” he said. “We were playing against Juve.” This candid admission highlights the respect Inter has for Juventus, a team known for its resilience and tactical acumen.
The Importance of Learning and Moving Forward
Mkhitaryan expressed regret over the defensive lapse that led to Juventus’s winning goal. “We shouldn’t have lost focus in the move where they scored,” he said, adding, “I’m sorry about it.” The 36-year-old called for a collective response from the team, urging them to “keep our heads down and work.” His words convey a sense of responsibility and a commitment to improving. Despite acknowledging that Juventus has undergone changes and additions, he reiterated that the focus should remain on Inter’s own performance. “Yes, obviously they have changed, they have new players, but we shouldn’t talk about them. We need to focus on ourselves and get back to winning ways.”
Conclusion: A Time for Reflection and Action
The loss to Juventus in the Derby d’Italia was a harsh reminder for Inter Milan of the fine margins that often decide such crucial matches. Henrikh Mkhitaryan’s insights offer valuable lessons for the team. Inter must become more clinical in front of the goal and maintain their focus throughout the match, especially in the face of strong opposition. The veteran’s emphasis on self-reflection and continuous improvement is a guiding principle that the entire squad can embrace. As the season progresses, Inter will need to channel their disappointment into determined efforts to stay competitive and challenge for the top spots in Serie A.
