Image source: sempreinter.com
Inter Milan head coach Cristian Chivu is preparing to field his strongest possible lineup for Sunday’s crucial clash against Napoli at San Siro, with Alessandro Bastoni, Marcus Thuram and Nicolò Barella all expected to return to the starting eleven for the key Serie A encounter.
Chivu Prepares Strongest Inter Milan XI for Crucial Napoli Showdown at San Siro
There is cautious optimism emerging from Appiano Gentile ahead of Sunday’s showdown against Antonio Conte’s side. Matteo Darmian and Diouf have both confirmed their progress in recent days, taking part in partial group training and pushing for places in the matchday squad. For Darmian, it would mark a significant step forward after the defender has not featured since the end of September due to a persistent calf problem.
However, not all the news is positive for Inter Milan. Davide Frattesi remains unavailable and will miss the match against Napoli, ruling out the midfielder for what promises to be a fixture that carries clear weight in the title race. The absence represents a blow to Chivu’s midfield options for the encounter with their direct rivals.
According to Corriere dello Sport, Chivu intends to field the strongest possible Inter side for the heavyweight clash. The Nerazzurri coach is expected to reinstate several regular starters, with Alessandro Bastoni, Marcus Thuram, Nicolò Barella and Piotr Zielinski all set to return from the outset after being rested in recent fixtures.
Inter Milan want a statement performance at home as they look to reassert themselves against their direct rivals. The probable Inter XI features a 3-5-2 formation with Sommer in goal, a back three of Bisseck, Akanji and Bastoni, wing-backs Luis Henrique and Dimarco, midfield trio of Barella, Calhanoglu and Zielinski, and strike partnership of Thuram and Lautaro Martinez leading the attack.
