Sinisa Mihajlovic may view today’s clash with former club Inter as “a game like any other,” but admits victory would have a particularly sweet taste.
The Bologna boss began his coaching career as assistant manager to Roberto Mancini on the Nerazzurri bench, but was fired along with Mancio despite winning three consecutive Scudetti.
“It is a game like any other and there are still three points up for grabs,” assured the Serb, who has had a war of words with Jose Mourinho.
“Inter are strong, but they cannot win all the time. We know what their few weak points are and will try to make the most of them.”
Mourinho could be tempted to rest stars ahead of the Champions League tie with Manchester United, but hinted he will not do so.
“Quite right, I would have done the same in his place,” added Mihajlovic. “In any case, I don’t care who plays, as with that squad they are all of a high quality.
“Would it make such a difference between Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Julio Cruz, Marco Materazzi and Walter Samuel, Sulley Muntari and Patrick Vieira?
“Against great sides you need to maintain the utmost concentration. The stronger our opponent, the greater our victory.”
The Bologna Coach has said he’ll keep faith with Uruguayan defender Miguel Angel Britos to mark Ibrahimovic, as he is 6’2” and weighs 82kg.
“He has the right physical presence to make his mark in Serie A and did well against Udinese and Napoli.
“There are sides who allow you to prod at them and find a way to hurt them, but Inter are always a tight unit. If you reinforce one area, you leave yourself exposed in another.
“This is why I am thinking of a line-up that can give me more confidence and security, a side that is rock solid. On paper we have no chance, but that is why I particularly love playing games like this.”
As there are three Serie A matches today so that they can prepare for the Champions League, Bologna-Inter kicks off at 15.00 UK time.
Roma-Siena is at 17.00 and Palermo-Juventus closes Saturday’s fixture list at 19.30.
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