Milan Derby: Sergio Conceicao Affirms Friendship With Simone Inzaghi Before Supercoppa Clash

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AC Milan's coach, Sergio Conceicao, is preparing for the Supercoppa Italiana match against Inter on Monday. Despite the competitive nature of the game, he insists it won't affect his friendship with Inter's Simone Inzaghi. Conceicao recently led Milan to a 2-1 victory over Juventus, marking a successful start after replacing Paulo Fonseca.

The upcoming Milan derby will see Conceicao face off against his former Lazio teammate, Inzaghi. Their last encounter was during the Champions League last 16 in the 2022-23 season when Porto lost to Inter on aggregate. Although there were pitchside disagreements then, Conceicao clarified they were specific to that match and not personal.

"I will definitely shake his hand," said Conceicao. "Back when I was at Porto, there were incidents that are part of [that] game. Of course, I respect him." He emphasized their shared history as footballers and friends, stating their friendship remains strong despite being opponents during matches.

Inzaghi echoed similar sentiments about their relationship. He mentioned that they haven't spoken since their last meeting but assured nothing unusual occurred. "We were together for many years and shared a dressing room," he noted, highlighting their bond formed under former Lazio coach Sven-Goran Eriksson.

Milan might miss winger Rafael Leao for Monday's clash due to a muscle injury that kept him out of the last two games. Conceicao stated, "We will have to assess the situation. He is definitely not at 100% to play 90 minutes." A decision regarding Leao's participation will be made after training.

Inter also faces injury concerns with forward Marcus Thuram doubtful after sustaining a thigh injury during their semi-final win over Atalanta in Riyadh. Both teams are evaluating their squads ahead of this crucial fixture.

Coaching Milestones

Conceicao aims to become the first Milan coach since Filippo Inzaghi in August/September 2014 to win his first two matches across all competitions. Meanwhile, Inzaghi seeks his seventh title with Inter, which would tie him with Helenio Herrera and Roberto Mancini as one of Inter's most successful coaches since Serie A's single-round format began in 1929-30.

The match promises excitement as both teams strive for victory while maintaining respect between their coaches. The outcome could impact both clubs' standings and further solidify or challenge historical records within Italian football.