No Tickets! Inter Milan's Derby Title Dream Becomes AC Milan's Windfall, Increasing Safety Concerns

Inter Milan finds itself in a curious position this season. On one hand, their league performance has been exceptional, putting them on the verge of securing their second star. On the other hand, their early exit from the Champions League has been a disappointment. With a comfortable 14-point lead in Serie A, the title seems almost certain, making the final few rounds less thrilling for fans. Consequently, both domestic and international Inter fans have expressed on social media platforms like Weibo, Twitter, and Instagram that the season feels like it's dragging on, with little excitement remaining.

The Fans' Dilemma

With the season seemingly winding down, some fans have turned their attention to speculation about a change in ownership and the potential sale of their captain. This is a bittersweet scenario. Just a few years ago, Inter was fighting for a Champions League spot, often finding themselves in nail-biting situations until the last minutes of the final matchday. The club's future was hanging by a thread, and fans cherished the drama and uncertainty. Now, with a likely early title victory and the second star nearly secured, fans paradoxically find themselves bored.

This dramatic shift reflects Inter's remarkable progress over recent years. However, it is disheartening to see the people who contributed significantly to this transformation being criticized and labeled as expendable. I do not agree with this sentiment but respect the differing opinions among the fanbase. The core issue at hand is that the speed of the team's improvement has not kept pace with the rapidly growing expectations and desires of the fans. This phenomenon is not unique to football; it often occurs in life, where dissatisfaction stems from an insatiable appetite for more. Adjusting these expectations gradually is crucial. Regardless, the current situation is undoubtedly better than before, isn't it?

The Ticketing Crisis

Turning our focus to the present, one of the most significant events in the final stages of the season is the Milan Derby. The situation is clear: with eight rounds remaining, Inter holds a 14-point lead. If they win against Udinese and Cagliari in the next two rounds, the Derby in the 33rd round could be the title-clinching match. Celebrating their second star with a sixth consecutive derby victory is a dream shared by everyone associated with Inter—from the coach to the players, from the fans to the media. It is widely regarded as the biggest, if not the only, highlight of the season’s final stretch.

However, there is a significant issue: many Inter fans are struggling to secure tickets for this historic match. Since it is technically an AC Milan home game, the ticketing arrangements are controlled by the Rossoneri. AC Milan’s allocation includes 41,500 tickets for Milan fans, 26,500 of which are VIP tickets at exorbitant prices. Inter fans are only allotted 7,500 tickets, which is far from sufficient. Considering the sheer number of Inter fans in Milan, not to mention those around the world, this allocation falls short. I have personally received inquiries from nearly a hundred fans about the ticket situation.

Typically, in AC Milan’s home derbies, Inter fans receive between 8,000 to 10,000 tickets. This time, the number is slightly lower because AC Milan aims to maximize revenue by selling more high-priced VIP tickets. The management and owners of AC Milan seem to prioritize their Europa League knockout matches over this derby, adding to the frustration of Inter fans. This game, of great significance to Inter, appears to be used by AC Milan as a revenue-generating opportunity, creating a strange and uncomfortable situation for the Nerazzurri supporters.

Safety Concerns

This ticketing dilemma has also raised concerns about safety in Milan. The local authorities are worried that if the 7,500 Inter fans celebrate exuberantly in the presence of a much larger contingent of AC Milan fans, it could lead to disturbances. Furthermore, if Inter fans who couldn’t secure tickets for their section end up in the AC Milan sections, potentially wearing their blue and black jerseys, it could cause conflicts. The police have designated this derby as a "high-risk event," which is understandable given these potential issues.

Advice for Fans

Given these circumstances, I sincerely advise all fans who plan to attend this match to prioritize safety above all else. Despite what Western media might portray, Europe currently does not have the same level of security and social order as China. Therefore, it is crucial to avoid any risky situations and take care of yourselves. Enjoy the match responsibly and stay safe.

Reflecting on the Season

While the Milan Derby is undoubtedly a major highlight, it is not the only point of interest as the season concludes. Inter's journey to this point has been marked by significant progress and achievements. From narrowly securing Champions League spots to now being on the brink of a second star, the club has made remarkable strides. This season's potential early title victory is a testament to the team's hard work and strategic planning.

However, this success has also brought about new challenges. The heightened expectations and desires of the fanbase have created a dynamic where continuous improvement is demanded. Balancing these expectations with realistic goals is a delicate task for the club's management. The upcoming internal summit, where coach Simone Inzaghi will discuss his needs and the club's strategic direction, will be crucial in shaping the future.

The Bigger Picture

As the season draws to a close, Inter's focus will not only be on securing the title but also on planning for the future. This includes addressing the potential change in ownership, managing player contracts, and making strategic decisions in the transfer market. The ability to balance immediate successes with long-term stability will be key to maintaining the club’s upward trajectory.

In conclusion, while the Milan Derby presents a unique and historic opportunity for Inter, it is part of a broader narrative of progress and ambition. The club's journey from the brink of uncertainty to potential champions reflects the dedication and vision of everyone involved. As fans, embracing this journey and supporting the team through every high and low is what makes the experience truly special.