Image source: sempreinter.com
Inter Milan head coach Cristian Chivu is preparing to field his strongest possible lineup for Sunday’s crucial encounter against Napoli at San Siro, with Alessandro Bastoni, Marcus Thuram and Nicolo Barella all expected to return to the starting eleven for the key Serie A fixture.
Chivu Prepares Strongest Inter Lineup With Bastoni and Thuram Return Against Napoli
Cautious optimism is emerging from Appiano Gentile ahead of Sunday’s showdown, with Matteo Darmian and Diouf both confirming their progress in recent days after taking part in partial group training. The defender has not featured since the end of September due to a persistent calf problem but is now finally seeing light at the end of the tunnel as he pushes for a place in the matchday squad.
However, not all the news is positive for Inter as Davide Frattesi remains unavailable and will miss the match against Antonio Conte’s Napoli side. According to Corriere dello Sport, Chivu intends to field the strongest possible Inter side for a fixture that carries clear weight in the title race, with the Nerazzurri coach expected to reinstate several regular starters.
Alessandro Bastoni, Marcus Thuram, Nicolo Barella and Piotr Zielinski are all set to return from the outset as Inter seek a statement performance at home against a direct rival. The return of these key players represents a significant boost for Chivu as his side look to reassert themselves in what promises to be a crucial encounter in the Serie A campaign.
The probable Inter lineup shows Chivu’s intention to deploy his most experienced players, with Sommer in goal behind a back three of Bisseck, Akanji and Bastoni. The midfield will feature Barella, Calhanoglu and Zielinski, with Luis Henrique and Dimarco providing width, while Thuram partners Lautaro Martinez in attack for the San Siro clash.
