Italy Starlet Chosen Over French Forwards for Inter Milan’s Clash Against Genoa

Inter Milan appears to be leaning towards the young Italian forward, Francesco Pio Esposito, over his French counterpart, Ange-Yoan Bonny, for their upcoming Serie A match against Genoa. This decision comes amid the team’s need for effective lineup adjustments due to injuries in key positions.

Injury Challenges Before Genoa Match

Inter will miss Hakan Calhanoglu, prompting coach Cristian Chivu to explore alternative midfield strategies. After considering Nicolò Barella in a deeper role, Chivu has chosen to start Piotr Zielinski as the regista. Zielinski’s experience is expected to provide stability, allowing Barella to focus on offensive plays.

Calhanoglu is sidelined alongside fellow player Francesco Acerbi, both of whom withdrew during a recent Champions League clash against Liverpool. Acerbi’s injury is more concerning, having left the field soon after Calhanoglu.

Defensive Adjustments and Strategy

As reported by La Gazzetta dello Sport, Manuel Akanji is set to occupy a central defensive position. He will be flanked by Lars Bisseck, as Inter rotates their squad in preparation for the fixture against Genoa, managed by Daniele De Rossi.

Chivu is also deliberating on whether to retain Henrikh Mkhitaryan in left midfield and Luis Henrique on the right, balancing the attacking needs against the defensive structure required for the match. However, the most significant decision may revolve around Esposito’s partnership with Lautaro Martinez up front.

Pio Esposito Leading the Attack

Recent training sessions have indicated a shift in strategy as Pio Esposito has emerged as the preferred choice alongside Martinez. This marks a potential change from the anticipated pairing with Bonny, suggesting that management is giving Esposito the opportunity to shine in a critical match.

• Key Players Missing: Hakan Calhanoglu, Francesco Acerbi.
• Potential Starting Lineup:
  • Goalkeeper: [Unspecified]
  • Defense: Akanji, Bisseck
  • Midfield: Zielinski, Barella, Mkhitaryan, Henrique
  • Forwards: Esposito, Martinez

This matchup against Genoa is crucial for Inter Milan as they strive to maintain their momentum in the Serie A. With key decisions and strategic shifts, the team is gearing up for what promises to be an exciting encounter.