Inter Milan suffered a 3‑1 defeat to AC Milan in the Derby della Madonnina on Saturday, 31 October 2026, ending an unbeaten start to the 2026‑27 Serie A campaign. The result has reignited a debate that began last season when Nicolo Barella’s reckless foul outside the penalty area allowed Diego Moreira to convert a free‑kick that sealed the win for the Rossoneri.
Inter’s Derby Disappointment
With eight matches without a Derby victory, Inter have drawn twice and lost six times since their last win over Milan in April 2024. The 31 October match not only cost them a place in the top spot but also saw Lazio leapfrog them to second place with 28 points from 10 games.
Experts Call for a Midfield Shift
Sky Sport Italia pundit Paolo Di Canio, speaking on Sunday, argued that Inter’s midfield needs a new spark. “Barella’s foul was a bad one, it led to the goal. It’s a pattern we’ve seen before,” Di Canio said. He added that the club should consider giving Curtis Jones the starting role in the position Barella has been occupying.
Why Curtis Jones?
Jones arrived from Liverpool in the summer for a €35 million fee and has made four Serie A appearances for Inter. He missed the last five matches due to an adductor injury that has kept him out since the September‑October international break. Despite limited game time, the former Liverpool midfielder is praised for his aggression, defensive work rate, and ability to support the attack, traits that Di Canio believes Inter lack.
Stefano Pioli’s Perspective
Former Nerazzurri head coach Stefano Pioli also backed Di Canio’s assessment. He described Jones as an all‑rounder and said that the absence of Lautaro Martinez has been a bigger blow than any midfield reshuffle. Pioli highlighted the importance of a captain who fights for every ball and brings passion to the dressing room.
Impact on Inter’s Season
With Inter currently sitting in third place, a change in midfield could be the catalyst needed to regain momentum. The club’s coaching staff will likely weigh Jones’s fitness against Barella’s experience as they prepare for the next round of fixtures, including the crucial Serie A clash with Roma and the upcoming Coppa Italia semi‑final.
Fan Reactions and Social Media Buzz
Supporters on social media have expressed frustration over Barella’s defensive lapses and are rallying behind Jones’s potential start. Many fans argue that a more physically demanding midfielder could help Inter reclaim their domestic dominance.
Inter cannot afford to stay stuck in a midfield that has repeatedly faltered under pressure. Jones offers the grit and dynamism the club needs, and it is time the coaching staff put his talent to work. Barella’s recent mistakes show the urgency of this change.
If Jones starts, Inter will likely adopt a more pressing, high‑tempo midfield, tightening their defensive shape while creating quick transition chances. This could restore their competitive edge in Serie A and position them better for European qualification.
Preguntas Frecuentes
Barella’s foul outside the penalty area led to a free‑kick that was converted by Diego Moreira, giving Milan a 3‑1 lead and exposing defensive lapses.
Jones is a central midfielder known for his aggression, defensive work rate, and ability to support the attack, making him a strong candidate for the starting midfield spot.
Jones has made four Serie A appearances for Inter since his €35 million transfer from Liverpool.