Alessandro Bastoni emphasizes that Inter should avoid becoming overly fixated on defeating Juventus. He acknowledges that while the Nerazzurri may not have the edge over Luciano Spalletti, he is well-acquainted with their style: ‘He knows us.’
Inter will face Juventus in the marquee matchup of Serie A Round 25 on Saturday, February 14.
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Despite not having secured a victory against Juventus, Milan, or Napoli in their last 14 encounters, Bastoni insists that he and his teammates shouldn’t feel additional pressure as a result.
Bastoni: We Understand the Importance of Inter-Juventus
MILAN, ITALY – DECEMBER 09: Joe Gomez of Liverpool FC challenges Alessandro Bastoni of FC Internazionale during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase match at Stadio San Siro on December 09, 2025. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“We certainly believe that the time has come, but we shouldn’t let it become an obsession, or it could backfire,” the Inter defender told Sky Sport Italia.
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“It’s important to remember that it’s just one match. We must keep our composure and approach it as we would any other game while striving to earn a victory against a direct rival.
“We’ve prepared well over the past week, which puts us in a good position,” Bastoni added.
“That said, we understand the significance of Inter-Juventus in the football landscape. However, it is essential that we do not let it become an obsession, remaining focused throughout the game.”
Several Inter players, including Bastoni, Nicolò Barella, Federico Dimarco, and Davide Frattesi, were key members of the Italy squad during Spalletti’s tenure as coach. Does this familiarity give them an advantage in anticipating his strategies for the match?
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“He has coached us, so it might be an advantage for him because he understands our traits,” Bastoni responded.
PARMA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Juventus head coach Luciano Spalletti observes the match before the Serie A game between Parma Calcio 1913 and Juventus FC at Stadio Ennio Tardini on February 01, 2026. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“He is undoubtedly a talented coach and will do everything possible to challenge us. However, we will be playing at home, in front of our supporters, and we aim to deliver an excellent performance.”
Regarding Kenan Yildiz, considered among Juventus’s top players, how is Inter planning to counter him?
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“Yildiz is certainly a strong player, but Juventus is not solely dependent on him. We’ve noted how crucial McKennie is to their game,” Bastoni explained.
“Furthermore, the contributions from Locatelli and their defensive setup are vital. They possess numerous players who excel in their roles.”
Currently leading the Serie A table, Inter remains in contention for three titles, having progressed to the Champions League knockout stages and the Coppa Italia semi-finals.
“We’ve definitely established a balance. While our play might not always be aesthetically pleasing, it has proven efficient,” Bastoni concluded.
“This is a focus for our coach, and certain aspects have improved compared to the start of the season. Our confidence is on the rise, and these factors have shaped Inter into who we are today.”