Inter defender Yuto Nagatomo has revealed that the Biscione must win the Derby della Madonnina on Sunday in order to take a big step towards their goal of making it into the top three in the Serie A standings.
The Nerazzurri sit five points behind third place Napoli with 16 points earned in their 11 league games this season thus far and the 28-year-old is hoping that his team can secure the vital three points over AC Milan in coach Roberto Mancini’s first match since his return to the San Siro outfit.
Nagatomo spoke to fans through Inter’s official Twitter page on Friday about the derby and Mancini’s arrival at Inter, while also commenting on his relationship with fellow Japanese international and Milan rival Keisuke Honda.
“Mancini has made a great impression on me since his arrival, I hope he can achieve many great things with us,” said the former Cesena man.
“In order to make it to third place we have to win more and think of each game week by week. I’ve been training well, we must win this derby.
“My favourite memory at Inter? Winning the Coppa Italia in 2011. There have been many beautiful moments, but victory is the most important thing.
“We are ready for the derby. Italy is my second home and I’m doing fine here.
“My relationship with Honda? We see each other often, we eat dinner together and text message each other. He’s a great friend.”
