Marotta lists Inter rivals in Scudetto race, including Milan

Inter chief Beppe Marotta believes the Scudetto race will include Milan, Juventus, Napoli, Lazio, Roma and Atalanta, but hopes Saturday’s derby will be ‘a positive advertisement for Serie A.’

Serie A returns on Saturday after the break for international duty and the Derby della Madonnina is also a top of the table clash between the joint leaders.

Considering the Nerazzurri won the last four meetings with Milan in all competition, scoring seven goals and conceding none, they could be seen as the favourites here too.

“No, we are only at the start of the season,” Marotta told reporters at the Premio Gentleman event this evening.

After three rounds, only Milan and Inter remain on a 100 per cent record in Serie A and they face off ahead of the opening Champions League group stage fixtures.

“The derby is a very special game regardless of its status within a season, as there is that historic, wonderful rivalry. We hope it will be a positive advertisement for Serie A and a great game of football.

“Simone Inzaghi’s work is bearing fruit and we can have an important role to play. I think the race for the Scudetto is very similar to recent years, it will be very balanced, so let’s not forget Juventus, Napoli, Lazio, Roma and also Atalanta, who are by now consolidated in the leading group.”

With the departure of Marcelo Brozovic and Samir Handanovic, the captain’s armband has been given to Lautaro Martinez, who had a sensational start to this campaign.

“We gave him the captaincy because he deserved this responsibility after his maturation in recent years. He is still young and can further prove that he is a champion.”

Marotta also confirmed that Inter are ready to negotiate a new contract for wingback and lifelong supporter Federico Dimarco.

“It is only fair when players show that real sense of belonging. It is right to recognise that and so we will sit around a table soon to discuss it.”