Dimarco discusses Milan derby obsession and Theo Hernandez ‘respect’: “I take the insults” | OneFootball

Federico Dimarco is one of the best left-backs in the world, but he has direct competition in Italy, from his AC Milan counterpart – Theo Hernandez. Today, the Italian admitted he has great respect for the Frenchman and even looks to ‘steal’ some of his traits.

In recent years, Dimarco has consistently been considered one of the best wing-backs in the world, but he has normally sat behind Theo in the rankings, even if the Nerazzurri have been the more competitive team.

This season, the Italian may be rated slightly higher with the Frenchman struggling for Milan, and his attitude being questioned. However, very few would take the Inter defender over his Diavolo rival when both are at their best.

In an interview with BSMT, the left-back discussed his admiration for Theo, and how he looks to the Frenchman for improvement whilst also admitting how deeply he cares about the Derby della Madonnina – his words have been relayed by Calciomercato.com.

Theo Hernandez and his idols…

“There are players who still play and whom I respect. I take the insults now but Theo Hernandez I respect so much as a player. When I was a kid my idol was Roberto Carlos or Maxwell when he was at Inter. I try to steal from others and make them mine, but I don’t like to compare myself to anyone.”

Obsession with the derby…

“The matches I care most about? Only the derby. You can tell me all the matches you want, but for me, the match that excites me and gives me that extra something is the Milan derby. For the Inter Milan fan, the derby can’t be compared to anything. Both on the Inter and Milan sides.

“The ones I remember? Inter’s 4-3 when Maicon scored that goal from outside the box. The 4-0 of the Triplete and the 2-0 in ten men when Pandev scored on a free kick and then the ones I played. Do I only remember the victories? No, I also remember the defeats because those help you grow.”