Inter Milan’s unbeaten start to the 2026-27 Serie A season came to an end on Saturday with a disappointing 3-1 defeat to rivals AC Milan in the Derby della Madonnina. The loss has sparked significant debate, with midfielder Nicolo Barella drawing particular criticism for his performance, prompting calls from football experts for summer signing Curtis Jones to be given a starting role.
Derby Defeat and Barella’s Performance
The 3-1 loss to Milan marked a continuation of Inter’s struggles in the derby, extending their winless streak against their city rivals to eight matches since April 2024. This latest defeat also saw Inter knocked off the top spot in Serie A by Lazio, who have accumulated 28 points from a possible 30 after 10 league matches.
Among the players singled out for their display was Italy international Nicolo Barella. His foul just outside the penalty area directly led to Diego Moreira’s well-taken free-kick, which put Milan 3-1 ahead. Pundits have highlighted this as a recurring issue in Barella’s game.
Pundits Advocate for Curtis Jones
Following the derby, former Lazio and West Ham forward Paolo Di Canio, speaking on Sky Sport Italia, was critical of Barella’s actions. Di Canio suggested that Inter’s midfield could benefit from a change, specifically advocating for Curtis Jones to become a regular starter.
“Remember: Curtis Jones will be a starter. He brings aggression and also helps out in front of the defence. He will play, he’s their most evolved midfielder,” Di Canio stated. His sentiments were echoed by former Nerazzurri head coach Stefano Pioli, who was also in the Sky studio. Pioli expressed his admiration for Jones, describing him as an “all-rounder.”
Jones’s Inter Journey and Injury Setback
Curtis Jones joined Inter from Liverpool in the summer for a fee of €35 million. Despite the significant investment, the English midfielder has made only four Serie A appearances for the club. His integration into the squad has been hampered by an adductor injury, which has kept him out of action for the last five matches since the September-October international break.
The calls for Jones to start come as Inter seeks to regain momentum and address the issues highlighted by their derby performance. His return from injury could offer the team a new dynamic in midfield, potentially providing the aggression and defensive support that experts believe is currently lacking.
Impact of Lautaro Martinez’s Absence
While Barella’s performance and Jones’s potential have been central to the post-derby discussion, Stefano Pioli also pointed to another significant factor affecting Inter: the absence of captain Lautaro Martinez. Pioli emphasised the importance of the Argentine forward, stating, “There’s an Inter with Lautaro and an Inter without him. Every coach wants a captain like that.” Martinez’s fighting spirit and desire to help the team are seen as crucial elements that Inter is currently missing, further compounding their challenges.