Inter Milan is gearing up for a critical week as they host both Arsenal and Napoli, seeking to solidify their ambitions in both European and domestic competitions. Currently, Inter and Arsenal are tied on seven points in the revamped Champions League format, while Inter sits comfortably within the top eight spots that guarantee direct qualification to the knockout stage. Although their recent record shows seven wins and an unbeaten streak of eight across all competitions, concerns linger about their overall consistency.
Despite appearing in good form, Inter has displayed a troubling indecisiveness this season, which has allowed Napoli to surprisingly take the lead in Serie A. Last season, Inter’s defense was formidable, conceding only 22 goals en route to the Scudetto. However, this season, they have already let in 13 goals in 11 league matches, and their once-dominant attack has struggled to finish games effectively. The team's fragility was highlighted by a dramatic 4-4 draw against Juventus after they squandered a two-goal lead, while a narrow win against Venezia came after a late equalizer was disallowed due to a handball.
Inter manager Simone Inzaghi has acknowledged the need for improvement, emphasizing the importance of being more clinical in front of goal. After the match against Venezia, he remarked on the team's missed opportunities, suggesting that they should have secured a more comfortable win rather than relying on a late VAR decision to maintain their lead. Lautaro Martinez, who scored the decisive goal against Venezia, is set to start in the upcoming Champions League clash alongside Marcus Thuram, who has also been a key player despite recent struggles.
Fortunately for Inter, they will welcome back influential midfielder Hakan Calhanoglu and defender Francesco Acerbi, both returning from injuries. Inzaghi confirmed that the only player unavailable will be wing-back Carlos Augusto, while Federico Dimarco’s outstanding form provides reassurance in defense and attack. Dimarco has already contributed significantly this season with five assists, including the one that set up Martinez's winner, making him a crucial player for Inter as they prepare to face formidable opponents in the coming days.
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