Inter Milan defender Stefan de Vrij believes a win over Juventus would “mean a lot for the atmosphere” around the Nerazzurri.

The Dutchman spoke via the Italian broadcaster Sky Sport Italia FCInterNewsahead of tonight’s Serie A showdown with the Bianconeri.

The Derby d’Italia against Juventus is always one of the biggest games of Inter’s season.

The rivalry between the Nerazzurri and the Bianconeri is certainly one of the biggest in Italian football.

Furthermore, there is a general feeling that it is a match with important implications in the Serie A title race. That is certainly the case this time, with both teams near the top of the table.

Stefan De Vrij: “Beating Juventus would mean a lot to our atmosphere”

Wins over Juventus have often proven difficult for Inter in Serie A in recent years.

But last season the Nerazzurri scored a hugely important victory over the Bianconeri. That victory in February was an absolutely crucial moment on Inter’s way to winning the Serie A title.

And three points against Juventus tonight would certainly have a similar effect.

Inter defender de Vrij said before the match that “winning would mean a lot to us.”

“We know how important this match is for us, for the fans and for the whole atmosphere around the club,” he continued.

“We play at home, in front of our fans.”

“We will do everything we can to put in a great performance and win,” de Vrij said.

De Vrij then admitted: “There is still a lot to improve.”

“We are working together on this,” the 32-year-old continued.

De Vrij said: “Tonight will be an excellent opportunity for us to demonstrate our growth.”

“I think we have to concentrate on ourselves,” the Inter defender argued. “We depend on ourselves, we have to put our game and ideas into practice.”