Montella looks over his shoulder ahead of derby

– Vincenzo Montella will be in the firing line as AC Milan look to kick-start their season against city rivals Inter in the highly-anticipated derby of the Chinese-owned sides tomorrow.

The clash takes on even more significance as both teams are now under Chinese ownership – Inter on the payroll of the Suning Group and Milan, the Rossoneri Sport Investment Lux Group.

The last time the two Milan giants clashed in the Derby della Madonnina was back on April 15, after Li Yonghong completed his takeover of AC Milan to put both sides under Chinese ownership.

It was a dramatic game with Cristian Zapata’s equaliser deep into injury time grabbing a crucial point, which kept Milan in the

Milan

running for a Europa League spot.

Both teams – who share the San Siro Stadium on the western outskirts of Italy’s industrial and financial capital – have seen their fortunes decline in recent years.

But for the new Asian owners it’s payback time on their multi-million euro investments with Milan’s last Serie A title in 2011 and Inter hitting a barren run since the 2010 treble.

While unbeaten Inter are riding high just two points behind leaders Napoli after seven games this campaign, Montella’s side have already notched up three losses, most recently at home to Roma two weeks ago.

After the international break the next three weeks will be make or break for Montella (right) with seven games on the trot including Juventus on October 28 and Europa League action against AEK Athens.

Leaders Napoli travel to Roma and champions Juventus host Lazio before next week’s Champions League fixtures in Europe.

Napoli have a maximum 21 points from seven games with Roma six points adrift but with a game in hand.

“It’s a direct clash for the top places,” said Roma midfielder Lorenzo Pellegrini of the duel between last season’s second and third-place sides at the Stadio Olimpico.

Pellegrini missed Italy duty with Macedonia and Albania, but returns this weekend.

“I’ve been fine for the past few days, I’ve been back with the group and the pain has disappeared. I’m ready for Saturday.”

Despite Napoli’s charge this season, Juventus’ Blaise Matuidi believes the Turin side will have the staying power once again.

“I’m not surprised to see Napoli so high, they’re getting better. They will stay with us until the end, but the season is long and I’m sure Juventus will eventually win the title.”

In mid-table clashes, Fiorentina host Udinese, just one place below them in 12th, as SPAL travel to Bologna and Crotone host Torino.

Cagliari host Genoa in Sardinia while Benevento travel to Verona, with both teams still looking for their first three points of the season. –