Solinas will be making his Derby debut alongside a number of his players in the mammoth Absa Premiership tie at the FNB Stadium on Saturday.
Having previously worked in the PSL and watched on from a distance while at Free State Stars, the Italian tactician is fully aware of the magnitude of the fixture.
He has also been keeping an eye on his counterpart Milutin Sredojevic as well as The Buccaneers players, while admitting – in jest – that Amakhosi too have good players but not as good a coach.
“It’s a special game for the coach; it’s a special game for the players; it’s a special game or the club. It’s also a special game for the supporters,” Solinas said.
“So, we need to prepare very well for this game. It’s a very difficult game because Pirates play well, with good players and a fantastic coach.
“When you play against a team with good players and good coach, it’s difficult. But, Kaizer Chiefs also have good players. Not a good coach, but good players.”
Kick-off of the much-anticipated encounter is scheduled for 15h30, with tickets already sold out.