Cruz on the challenge at De Kuip: "It's not a lack of hunger, facing Feyenoord right away is a good thing"

Julio Ricardo Cruz, a former player of both Feyenoord and Inter, spoke to the Gazzetta dello Sport ahead of tonight’s match, assuring his support for the Nerazzurri despite his ties to both clubs.

On the lost derby, the former striker assessed the situation without alarmism: “It’s a pity about those two goals conceded right away, after that everything became more difficult. Maignan, then, was simply phenomenal. The problem, however, is that Inter has gotten used to coming back, but you can’t always expect to concede two goals and still make it. It’s still the first defeat in the league, let’s not dramatize: if they keep up this pace, the team will rack up a mountain of points. Feyenoord right away? It’s a good thing, you don’t have time to brood and get caught up in negative thoughts.”

On the attacking department, Cruz gave a detailed opinion: “Thuram is doing well, he’s scoring, he’s physically strong, but the absence of Lautaro is felt. Let’s not forget Pio and Bonny, young and strong: Inter is lucky to have them. Esposito is the one who has grown the most, last year was crucial to launch him and I hope he becomes the man who brings the World Cup back to Italy.”

Cruz then answered the question about what is missing compared to last year: “Is something missing compared to last year? I don’t know. Inter plays very well, runs a lot, maybe lacks a bit of concentration at the start, but I don’t think it’s a matter of hunger or players being too… relaxed. When you’ve won a Scudetto and a Coppa Italia, you wear those successes on your chest and want to do even better.”

Among the most discussed players is Dimarco, about whom Cruz expressed confidence: “I’m sure he’ll get back to his level, there’s nothing to worry about. He had spoiled us, he was a powerhouse, as strong as a truck when he started. A dip in form can happen, but in my team I always want a Dimarco.”

A mention also for the atmosphere at De Kuip, where tonight’s match will be played: “It’s a very special stadium, with the stands very close to the pitch and very passionate fans. It feels like Argentina.” Finally, on the future of the new San Siro: “It will be among the five best stadiums in the world: Milan will have a beautiful facility. It’s normal to feel nostalgic for San Siro, but life goes on.”