5 things we learned in Serie A this weekend: Inter is a force to reckon with

With another weekend of Serie A action in the books, we take a look back at five things we learned from the latest slate of matches.

Inter still perfect through 3 games

Inter is the only team in Serie A to collect a full nine points from its first three games, outlasting city rival AC Milan in the derby with a narrow 1-0 win on Sunday. It's also the first time in five years that the Nerazzurri are first in the league. Even more encouraging is the fact that they didn't need much time to gel after reinforcing every position but goalkeeper this summer. Coach Roberto Mancini has organised his players, who have in turn provided solid one-goal victories so far this season. It's the look of a smart team who could seriously challenge for the Scudetto.

Balotelli impresses in 2nd Milan debut

Mario Balotelli emerged as a substitute in the 61st minute of the derby, and he exploded onto the pitch. He took command of free-kicks, set up teammates, and even hit the post from long range. It was a version of Balotelli the world had not seen in a full year: focused, determined, and serious about his football. Whether it will last is the question for the next few weeks.

Juventus making the wrong kind of history

The stat is frightening: Not since 1962 has Juventus managed to pick up a single point in the opening three matches of a Serie A season, according to Opta. But here are the champions, slumming it out in the bottom half of the table. It's not for a lack of trying. Juve has attempted a total of 57 shots - second highest in the league - yet only has two goals. The new-look attack with Paulo Dybala, Hernanes, and Mario Mandzukic still needs work. But there is time.

Totti pushing it in his 24th season

Francesco Totti made his first Serie A start in a 2-0 win over Frosinone on Saturday, and thus began his 24th consecutive season with Roma. The question about his role with the club remains and whether coach Rudi Garcia plans to use him regularly. "When teams line up with five defenders then we could play him in a 4-3-3," Garcia said before the match. "Otherwise Francesco could also be fielded just behind Edin (Dzeko), as we are working on that." Totti didn't last the whole match, and his substitute Juan Iturbe scored the second goal in extra time.

Napoli finding life better with Insigne

What a goal. Lorenzo Insigne blasted his first Serie A goal of the season against Empoli, and it was a timely reminder of the 24-year-old's quality. Insigne has found a comfortable spot behind the strikers, which is where coach Maurizio Sarri intends to play him. It's a refreshing start for a player who missed a large chunk of the previous campaign with a torn ACL. If he stays healthy, Insigne could relaunch Napoli's Champions League bid, as well as his own international career with Italy.