Inter Milan is preparing for a crucial Champions League match against Arsenal, with positive news on goalkeeper Josep Martinez's return to the squad. Coach Cristian Chivu plans to rest key players in the upcoming Serie A game against Udinese to manage fatigue. This balancing act highlights the team's focus on European ambitions.
Inter Milan has wrapped up its final training session before heading to Udine for a Serie A fixture, amid preparations for a pivotal Champions League encounter with Arsenal. According to reports, former Barcelona goalkeeper Josep Martinez is expected to rejoin the matchday squad for the Arsenal game after sitting out recent matches. As Inter's second-choice keeper behind Yann Sommer, Martinez's return provides valuable depth, especially with Sommer's contract nearing its end, marking a decisive period in the 28-year-old's career at the club.
Coach Cristian Chivu faces selection challenges due to the packed schedule and player fatigue. For the Udinese match, Chivu is likely to rotate the squad, resting stars to keep them fresh for Arsenal. In defense, Manuel Akanji could be benched, leading to a choice between Stefan de Vrij and Francesco Acerbi, while Yann Bisseck returns on the right side of the back three and Alessandro Bastoni holds the left. Up front, Luis Henrique, Federico Dimarco, and Lautaro Martinez are set to start, with Piotr Zielinski potentially sidelined to preserve energy for the European test.
Midfield adjustments include Nicolò Barella anchoring in front of defense, supported by Petar Sucic and Henrikh Mkhitaryan. The probable lineup in a 3-5-2 formation is: Sommer; Bisseck, Acerbi, Bastoni; Luis Henrique, Sucic, Barella, Mkhitaryan, Dimarco; Lautaro, Esposito. Chivu skipped a pre-match press conference, as he did before the recent Lecce game, emphasizing the focus on recovery and tactics. This approach underscores Inter's priority on the Champions League, where progression hinges on strong performances against tough opponents like Arsenal.
