Ambrosini names ‘surprise’ Milan player who could settle derby against Inter | OneFootball

Massimo Ambrosini believes that Sunday’s Derby della Madonnina will be won in midfield, and suggests that Youssouf Fofana could be the ‘surprise’ player to settle the crunch match between Milan and Inter.

Ambrosini spent 18 years with Milan, turning out a total of 489 times across all competitions for the Rossoneri. He was also involved in his fair share of derbies, 29 different matches against Inter to be precise, with a record of 11 wins, six draws and 12 defeats.

The 35-time Italy international was among the former players to give his thoughts ahead of Sunday’s derby in a recent interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport.

Ambrosini previews Milan vs. Inter and makes ‘surprise’ Fofana prediction

During his talk with La Gazzetta dello Sport, Ambrosini was asked which of those derbies was his favourite to take part in.

“The two in the Champions League in 2003. But in general, every derby was an incredible experience. The two Curvas, the noise of the stadium, the adrenaline,” he said.

Milan talisman Rafael Leao has recently described this derby as a matter of ‘life or death’ for the Rossoneri. “Sportingly speaking, it is,” Ambrosini agrees. “At least for Milan who are chasing. Winning would mean getting back to -7 from the top and putting some pressure back on Inter.”

ITALY – JANUARY 18: Rafael Leao reacts during the Serie A match between AC Milan and US Lecce at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on January 18, 2026 in San Siro, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Still, closing down a seven point margin with 10 matches of the season left to play is one step too far for this current Milan side, Ambrosini concedes.

“I say no, even if you always have to dream in football. My Milan side made up seven points against Lazio within seven matches in 1999. But, if they’d asked me back then how much I believed in a comeback, I probably would have said the same as I’m saying now.

“Max has given Milan its soul back, starting with defensive solidity, which was the priority. That’s why I don’t think he’ll move from the 3-5-2. The mission to return to the Champions League is getting closer.”

Inter on the other hand, are on their way to winning their 21st league title in what is Cristian Chivu’s first full season in senior management.

“Cristian’s changed his register recently,” Ambrosini noted. “He’s chosen a bit more of a8 protective line of communication compared to what he did at the start. His work has been exceptional and shouldn’t be taken for granted. The only drawback is the (Champions League) elimination against Bodo.”

How does Ambrosini see this upcoming derby being settled?

“In midfield,” he replied. “I don’t expect a very open game, but a big battle especially in the middle, maybe decided by a surprise player.”

ITALY – JANUARY 08: Youssouf Fofana battles for possession with Johan Vasquez of Genoa during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Genoa CFC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on January 08, 2026 in San Siro, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

When asked who, he said: “Fofana. He’s been unlucky so far. I like his attitude and it shouldn’t be forgotten that he’s had to adapt as a midfielder.”

Lastly, Ambrosini had his say on emerging Inter and Italy talent Pio Esposito. He said: “He’s a serious and strong guy. I think everyone appreciates him because he conveys that desire to improve. I like him.”