Image source: sempreinter.com
Inter Milan manager Cristian Chivu is eagerly waiting for the return of long-term absentee Matteo Darmian as the club faces a growing injury crisis in the wingback positions, with the coach hoping to address personnel shortages in the current transfer window.
Cristian Chivu Banks On Matteo Darmian Comeback Amid Inter’s Wingback Crisis
Denzel Dumfries has been sidelined since the beginning of November and will remain out of action until March, whilst Darmian has been absent since late September. Their combined absences have left Chivu severely short of reliable wingback options, with Luis Henrique remaining the only senior choice available on the right flank for the Nerazzurri.
The 36-year-old Darmian is on the verge of recovery after his extended injury layoff. Despite being omitted from yesterday’s squad, the veteran wingback could be available for selection when Inter face Lecce in their upcoming fixture, providing Chivu with much-needed depth in the problematic position.
Chivu remains hopeful of reinforcing the right wing before the January transfer window closes at the end of the month. Inter have been monitoring several potential targets, including Marco Palestra and Dodo, as the club seeks to address the personnel shortage that has hampered their tactical flexibility in recent months.
However, the Nerazzurri cannot realistically expect to sign Palestra before the summer transfer window due to Atalanta’s prohibitive asking price for the player. The club will need to explore alternative options or wait until Darmian’s return to full fitness to ease the current crisis in the wingback department.
