Inter were beaten 3-1 by Milan in the derby on Saturday, a result that ended their unbeaten start to the 2026-27 Serie A season. The defeat also knocked Inter off top spot, with Lazio collecting 28 points from a possible 30 after 10 league matches.
What the defeat changed
Saturday's loss to Milan also extended Inter's winless run in the Derby della Madonnina to eight matches. Since their most recent victory over the Rossoneri in April of 2024, they have drawn twice and lost six times.
Di Canio's criticism of Barella
Barella committed the foul just outside the penalty area that led to Diego Moreira's free-kick for Milan's 3-1 lead. Speaking on Sky Sport Italia on Sunday, Di Canio said: "Inter suffered against Milan. It was a team that looked terrified, especially after going 3-1 down. Barella commits the foul and it’s a bad one, the one that led to the goal for 3-1. It’s things we’ve spoken about before, impromptu little heel kicks and things like that."
Di Canio also said: "They confirmed it themselves by saying that they might’ve lost a bit of hunger or that they’ve taken their foot off the gas. We’re not making that up. They are still the strongest team, but they didn’t bounce back against Milan. It’s a team that has a few problems. Most importantly, they need to get their best players back."
Jones backed for a starting role
On Sky Sport Italia on Sunday, Di Canio said Jones will be a starter. He said: "Remember: Curtis Jones will be a starter. He brings aggression and also helps out in front of the defence. He will play, he’s their most evolved midfielder."
Pioli, in the Sky studio on Sunday, said he agreed with Di Canio’s verdict on Jones, saying: "I like him a lot, he’s an all-rounder."
Jones has made four Serie A appearances for Inter following his €35m summer transfer from Liverpool. He has missed the last five with an adductor injury, which has kept him out of action since the September-October international break.
Pioli on Lautaro Martinez
Pioli feels that the absence of Lautaro Martinez is hurting Inter more than anything right now. He said: "There’s an Inter with Lautaro and an Inter without him. Every coach wants a captain like that. He fights for every ball and plays every game with passion and a desire to help the team. I’ve always really admired him."
Pioli also said: "Sometimes in the dressing room, what a teammate says to you can be the most important thing."
