Energized by their Champions League victory, Inter Milan is focusing back on Serie A, preparing for their home game against Monza. Coach Simone Inzaghi is not underestimating Monza, despite them being low in the league table. Monza previously drew 1-1 with Inter in September. Inzaghi is expected to make some changes to the lineup, but moderately. Acerbi and Bastoni might play again on the left side.
Carlos Augusto only partially trained with the group today and, while in the squad, is not ready to play a full match. He might play for about 20 minutes. This means there’s still an emergency on the left side, leading Inzaghi to repeat the Acerbi-Bastoni setup seen in Rotterdam.
In attack, there could be a surprising change. Despite scoring and winning a penalty in the Netherlands, Thuram didn’t seem completely comfortable. While it was thought he might rest, Lautaro has a minor back issue. In today’s training, the attacking duo tested was Correa and Thuram, suggesting a possible rotation. Taremi and Arnautovic could also play depending on the game’s progress.
Another surprise is in midfield, where Frattesi and Zielinski might start on the bench. Barella is expected to start, and Mkhitaryan returns after resting in the Champions League. Frattesi might get a chance in the Champions League later. Barella, Bastoni, and Mkhitaryan are all at risk of suspension for the next league game against Atalanta if they receive another yellow card. Starting them against Monza is a risky decision considering the Atalanta match next week.
Probable Lineup for Inter (3-5-2): Martinez; Pavard, de Vrij, Acerbi; Dumfries, Barella, Calhanoglu, Mkhitaryan, Bastoni; Thuram, Correa. Coach: Inzaghi.