The pass itself was as majestic. It was as accurate as a swipe from a cavalryman’s sabre, and the final thrust was as deadly as it seemed simple. We rarely see a striker in the modern game who is so able and committed to direct headers with such precision. The game has few ‘bombers’ left, but Lorenzo Lucca is a throwback with a modern twist.

When Kingsley Ehizibue released his precision cross in a Serie A game against Cagliari, he did so knowing there was an assassin at the end waiting to reward his artistry.

Udinese would win 2-0 against the Sardinians that day. They continued their impressive campaign start and could thank Lucca for a good part of this with him finding scoring as easy as free bets at the minute.

Lorenzo Lucca is not the modern ideal of what we expect from today’s game. He hasn’t ‘burst onto the scene’. He is a product of hard work and arduous apprenticeships and can be thankful for good schooling on his travels. His ability has seen him come to the attention and appreciation of the Azzurri, and now he can start to argue that he is a credible alternative to the prestigious talent that is Mateo Retegui.

Lucca, still only 24 years old, comes from Moncalieri near Turin. He is 6″ 7inches, and often, this leads teams to predict that he will be ungainly, awkward and a Serie C target man at best. This is where you would be wrong, as Lucca is much more than that. After starting his youth career at Atletico Torino, he did have a spell with Venezia, but it was a loan at Palermo that saw him begin to establish himself when he scored 14 goals in 27 games in the 2020-21 season.

Admittedly, this was in Serie D, yet his ability saw Pisa come looking for him. In 2021, he signed a five-year deal that saw him play in Serie B, and it started well. He scored six goals in his first seven games, and it looked like his career was taking on a new lease of life. But then, he stopped scoring, not finding the net again, completing 34 games in total.

This is where mistakes can be made when looking at Lucca. His game is much more than just goals. He needs to be more prolific – four goals in 10 appearances this term – but he is getting there and being noticed. His talent was noticed by Ajax, who loaned him with an option to buy, but in the end, after a reasonable season, he returned to Pisa.

Udinese snapped him up on loan, and after the 2023-24 season, they purchased him outright. This season, he is replaying them; he has six goals in 11 appearances in all competitions so far.

Udinese have seen exactly where he can fit into the system, and in turn, so have the Azzurri. At his height, it is no surprise that he is being used as a target man, as he was for Pisa, but this is where he differs. He drops into much deeper positions; here, he can allow his teammates to run wide of him, and he has the ability to ‘set up and turn’, often being in the box in time for the ball coming in.

The fact that he is very good with the ball at his feet often deceives the opposition, who may expect more of a tussle and grab the game from him instead of the more eloquent control they see. Even so, he does win most of the aerial duels he goes in for and, therefore, provides an option that isn’t normal in today’s game but has been something Italians have been used to for many decades before.

Lorenzo perhaps should be making even more of his ability in the air and scoring more goals and headers; however, his ability to cushion the ball is useful, and he likes to volley rather than head, of which he is very capable. The quality in the build-up play and his desire to include others in the goals mean that he is a superb target man who allows other team members to become unpredictable while he is the focus that absorbs the pressure.

This season, Udinese have started well, and Lucca has continued on his trajectory, which, in the last campaign, saw him take on more of the role of a poacher. His confidence seems to be increasing, and his teammates seem to understand the qualities he has. He has a very fluid running style with the ball and a deft touch, but this is not needed as much as he has started to make sure he is the main point of reference, and he is being more selfish.

When Italy called him up in October to replace Moise Kean, he described it as “the dream” of his life. He went on to say that he needs to stay consistent and that he can offer something different to the national team. He appreciates that his teammates recognise this, and he has listened to Luciano Spalletti, understanding that he needs to be more aggressive when attacking the box.

He is also conscious that he started from the bottom and is grateful and appreciative of his rise. He isn’t going to let it go. He may not be ‘Lorenzo the Magnificent,’ but he is undoubtedly on his way to being that.

Inter’s 4-4 draw against Juventus was indeed spectacular, but confirmed the Nerazzurri are way far from last season’s defensive solidity, an issue that Simone Inzaghi must fix as soon as possible, writes Richard Hall.

Kenan Yildiz wheeled away in celebration; he had just managed to secure an incredible comeback for Juventus. It was avoidable for Inter, and the body language of the ranks was poor.

When players walked back to the centre circle, most of them looked at the floor like five-year-olds told to go to bed after not listening. From 4-2 up in the Derby D’Italia, they conceded two late goals, and the Turkish attacker made sure the game ended 4-4.

The problem for Simone Inzaghi is that this is not the first time his team has switched off defensively, and it is becoming a regular occurrence rather than a rarity.

One doesn’t have to delve deep into analyzing high lines, disappearing wingbacks, and balls lost in transition. Last season, the Nerazzurri conceded 22 goals in 38 games, quite an achievement. This season, they have conceded 13 goals already. It is quite the question that needs a swift answer, and it cannot simply be that there is a hangover from last season.

The statistic, when unpacked, is more damning than you may think. The Stadio Giuseppe Meazza has been an atmospheric and intimidating home for the Nerazzurri, and it still is, and yet, this season, only Parma, Cagliari, Lecce, Genoa and Verona have conceded more goals at home.

For Inzaghi, that is frightening, especially as most of these goals have been avoidable. Perhaps the first game of the season against Genoa set the tone when, in a 2-2 draw, Yann Sommer uncharacteristically made a glaring error as he didn’t judge the flight of the ball as he saw it crash off the bar and cost them a goal.

This continued into the game against Juventus, when the wide men were allowed to drift too far in and slot balls through. Again, this has been a common factor as the full-backs have defended differently this campaign. Rather than pushing the attackers out wide like last season, they have chosen to shadow them until they are nearly in the box. Why is that?

There is something about a lack of concentration, that is for sure, especially late on in games. Of Inter’s 13 goals conceded, six have come in the first half, but more shockingly about the seven in the second is that all of them have come after 70 minutes. Why is there an inability to see out games? Tiredness? Unlikely.

Inzaghi has rotated the squad when he can, as Inter have strength in depth. Maybe this is the problem? Is the depth of the squad not good enough? Again, that is unlikely, as they proved last term. Adding to the disappointment and quandary is the fact that out of those seven goals, four of them have been scored by opposition substitutes, which indicates that opposing coaches are spotting these frailties.

Watching Inter this season hasn’t been a train wreck; even offensively, they can improve. This is perhaps what is frustrating Inzaghi so much as whilst Marcus Thuram is having an incredible season, Lautaro Martinez has not looked up to scratch and has also hit a dry spell at home.

He hasn’t scored at home in Serie A since February 28, which equates to nine games, and frankly is extremely poor by his high standards. He came back from the summer looking sluggish and not a sharp as his brilliance self but it is all not just on him. Inter could have scored more than four goals against Juventus.

Denzel Dumfries wasn’t the only one to miss a glaring opportunity, and this continues from the game against Young Boys to Genoa. Inter have played well in most of the games for long periods, but spells such as the opening half of the Derby Della Madonnina have cost them dearly.

Inzaghi said: “There is bitterness as a coach; I must analyse and talk to the players tomorrow.” Bemused by the defensive display again, he confirmed the frustration but said he must build on the positives.

There are some, that is for sure. Inter certainly fight as they did against Roma, Young Boys, and Juventus, and attitude is not the issue. Concentration? Maybe. Empoli follow on Wednesday, and this will be key to bouncing back. It perhaps comes at the perfect time for Inter, but they will want to go away not just with three points but also a clean sheet.

@RichHall80

Simone Inzaghi and Inter will be raring to go after an untimely international break, and while defending their Serie A title is still the priority this season, the Nerazzurri squad is big and talented enough to push for even more, writes Richard Hall. 

‘My Inter will win again’, this was the headline of the Gazzetta Dello Sport on Friday morning as they ran an interview with Lautaro Martinez. His main message is that the Nerazzurri should not stop at two stars but instead use this as a catapult to bring them into an era of dominance in Italian football.

Many say they have the squad to do it and this team will be tested in the next week, as they have an epic week where, at the end of it, if successful, it could see them emerge as the danger team in more than one competition.

For many, the early International break is a hassle, it breaks up the early rhythm and enthusiasm for the domestic campaign, especially following a Euros or a World Cup. Most cannot wait for it be to over and cannot really muster up excitement on what has been learned from this hiatus from club football.

This wasn’t the fact for fans of the Nerazzurri, especially those who follow the Azzurri. Here, fans were treated to spectacular displays from Davide Frattesi (who scored twice) and Federico Dimarco (who netted a sublime goal). At least in some ways it made the break feel like momentum was still in the Nerazzurri’s favour and there were examples of good displays by other squad members.

The opening day had style, it has a special atmosphere, a special game and many though just one special team, but Genoa v Inter gave us a surprise. An uncharacteristic Yann Sommer mistake and some good Genoese offensive work saw the game finish 2-2 however, Inter had played well in many elements of the game and could have finished with all three points.

Normal service was resumed however, a 2-0 win against Lecce was as efficient as was the 4-0 demolition against Atalanta. Inter were clinical ruthless in defence and they did it in style. Nicola Barella with ‘That goal’ as the highlight of all of this, a strike worthy of Lothar Matthaus and celebrated like Nicola Berti.

What’s next for Inter?

So, what next for Inter? This Sunday they travel to Monza in a derby that isn’t guaranteed. Inter have drawn 2-2 in recent years and amongst the 5-1 win and other solid victories, they have also lost 1-0 at home. They will go to the Stadio Brianteo with a heavily rotated squad (more of that later) and with good reason. That is because on the Wednesday they fly to the North of England to face Manchester City in a Champions League clash before they have the ‘home leg’ of the Derby Della Madonnina on the Sunday.

This huge week will certainly test the squad and it is predicted that players such as Stefan De Vrij, Carlos Augusto, Denzel Dumfries, Kristjan Asllani and Medhi Taremi will all start. Simone Inzaghi will be hoping he will be able to get the job done with this team and so he can have a reinforced team ready for the next two games. Strategically, we may also see the coach move from the 3-5-2 to a 3-4-3 at times, as it is said that the introduction of the Iranian striker has given him this option which he has used this season already.

It will be a tough week but if they can come through this with three wins then it would be a huge message to the rest of league and Europe that Inter once again a serious, despite their being a long way to go.

Creating dominance in all competitions is the utopian dream of any of the top European Clubs and it is intensely difficult. Juventus dominated domestically but Europe was evasive, Milan did an incredible job in the late 1980’s, early 1990’s but many teams since have had brief flirtations with prolonged success.

With this Inter team, Serie A is the priority and yet, the squad depth and the unity within it suggest that maybe they could go one step further. Nobody is talking about an era when every trophy has black and blue ribbons but perhaps for a period of time a fair few could

Predicting the future is a game which is nothing but folly, especially these days where the turnover of players, coaches and owners is so huge. Inzaghi will be clear that Inter need to live in the here and now and that means winning at Monza using the assets he has in his squad to get them one step closer. Its not a definitive week however, it is incredibly important.

Words: Richard Hall
@RichHall80

José Mourinho once said: “We all want to play great music all the time, but if that is not possible, you must hit as many right notes as possible.”

When you win in life, your immediate euphoria and endorphins dissipate quickly, and when that feeling goes, there is a very profound inner urge to repeat it immediately. However, sometimes, one needs to assess the situation, debrief, decompress, understand, and realise where that success came from. Then, after this, try to build again calmly. This, however, is not in the mindset of many people in modern society who want success to be followed by massive statements. Welcome to Inter in 2024.

When building immense foundations, you won’t create a spire on a detached house just because the design looks good. Inter, under Massimo Moratti, often gave us the most beautiful Swiss chocolate houses with a napalm candle. These were moments of fireworks with no water and Maseratis with minimal petrol. There were diamonds in attack and marshmallows in defence. Many enjoyed these years, but they were unpredictable and unsustainable, especially in the early stages.

Inter have been very, very different in recent years, but fans’ surely can’t complain about the results. A new season is about to begin with Simone Inzaghi’s boys ready to travel to Marassi to race Genoa. The 2023-24 title-winning team hasn’t changed much. On the contrary, new signings have made the team even deeper, and the shift of power from Suning to Oaktree, which saw Beppe Marotta named, has provided continuity on and off the pitch. The defending champions brought in Josep Martinez in goal from Genoa to replace Emil Audero, an upgrade to a point. Then Medhi Taremi from FC Porto. The ‘Prince of Persia’ offers to be the new Edin Dzeko if he can stay fit. Finally, the most impressive move from ‘Beppe’ was the free signing from Napoli of Piotr Zelinski. It was a coup as the Poland star will make the Nerazzurri midfield look unbreakable.

Inzaghi confirms two Inter players out against Genoa, but is delighted with Lautaro’s ‘signal’

One could say that social media’s elaborately extreme way of reporting reactionary and needy way of deciphering transfer windows would treat this as a failure. However, go back to the beginning. It’s possible to do this in two ways. Number one, concentrate on Inter. The squad is reinforced, contract extensions are done, and Lautaro is the final decoration on a beautiful Milanese desert.

When one looks at the rest of Serie A, there is even more reason for Inter fans not to break out into ‘Never Enough’ from The Greatest Showman. Milan and Juventus are in a huge transition, and whilst it is not incomprehensible that they won’t click into gear immediately, they’ll both have to adapt to new playing styles and ideas. Of course, beware of Napoli and Antonio Conte’s return. Are they really going to be title contenders? Maybe, but it’s unsure. Atalanta will be up there as well. Mateo Retegui was a super signing, but it only came because Gianluca Scamacca had a terrible injury. Roma have issues with Paulo Dybala and Lazio are weakened with Ciro Immobile going.  On paper, Inter should be champions again, and they have serious momentum with a very strong squad in all positions.

Inter will not have a new song next season; however, they will make sure they hit the right notes. This isn’t a new tour or an album; this is a new group. Is it functional, and will it get results? Probably. Simone Inzaghi employs the Kaizen theory, continually improving operations and involving all employees. Is it gradual and methodical? Yes. Is it fun? We’ll know at the end of the season, but Inter start from a strong position.

@RichHall80

It is rare for me to talk in the first person, and it is strange for me to talk about my experiences with Inter; however, today, I will, and this is for a reason. As any football fan will confess, one has to admit that when you are so beautifully blessed, everything seems to be going right. I would argue that only a tiny percentage of fans ever feel this as only a limited number of clubs get to this position. That is why, I find it imperative to talk about Inter’s future. I have been a fan since 1988, so I feel Inter must safeguard themselves.

It is 2010, Inter have won the treble. A season of travel and trips to games I could not have imagined came to a climactic finale in Madrid. I wrote an article in those heady May days in 2010 and the title was somewhat of a surprise. My vision for the 2010 team was that the treble team was the end of an era, not the beginning. Never have I been pained to say more that I was right.

Fast forward to 2024, and we have won the title after an epic victory against our city rivals, Milan. What an incredible way to get a second star despite disappointments in the Coppa Italia and Champions League. What can I say about this show apart from waxing lyrical about Inter’s form and how good they have been to watch?

We have been blessed this term with so few disasters. So, what happens next? Can we ask questions about the long term? When thought about, this surrounded a couple of areas: the future of Simone Inzaghi, the future of Beppe Moratta, the future of Suning, and the future of San Siro. Are we creating a legacy or just a flash in the pan?

So, let’s talk Simone Inzaghi. From Gazzetta Dello Sport’s recent headlines, the Inter coach is close to being handed a new contract. This has been a policy of the Nerazzuri for some time and it shows how the Inter coach likes to work. What is crucial for this is the process. Simone needs to continue with the team as the development in tactics has been exemplary. The Piacenza-born coach has brought the Nerazzurri to the next level and managed to win the first Serie A title in his coaching career. Inzaghi had signed one-year contract extensions in the past years, but now he will likely put pen to paper on a new two-year contract as a reward for his hard work and Inter’s developments on the pitch.

Keeping your coach is one thing; losing your CEO is another. The Nerazzurri must replace Mister Marotta even if the experienced director will remain at San Siro for another three years. The former Juventus executive has recently revealed he would step down after the end of his contract in 2027. After a decade with Juventus, he transformed Inter. Marotta had the blueprint. Andre Onana, Romelu Lukaku, Archraf Hakimi. But also free signings like Henrik Mkhitaryan and Marcus Thuram. Do we need to say more? The man is incredible and will help Italian youth thrive if he sticks to his promise. Inter have to replace him in the long term, but in the meantime, the Nerazzurri can still plan the future with the 67-year-old

Finally, Oaktree and Inter. It is a problem, isn’t it? In less than a month, Inter’s history could be re-written. By May 2024, the Nerazzurri (well, Zhang) have to pay the US Management a fee of circa €275m, plus €100m interest. However, the President seems willing to finalise a new agreement with a UK-based fund to remain in charge long term. As he also said from the recent China F1 GP, he’s at Inter to stay, so don’t expect a short-term change at the helm for the new Serie A champions.

Last but not least, the Nerazzurri must determine whether to remain at San Siro and potentially buy the Stadio Meazza with their city rivals or move elsewhere and build their new home in Rozzano. The latest updates from Pinetina seem to be leaning towards the second option given that both Inter and Milan are unconvinced about San Siro. However, the San Siro saga has been plenty of surprises and sudden twists, so expect the unexpected on this front, but surely Inter must make a decision in the coming months as a club of its stature can no longer wait for its own stadium, the subsequent revenues and to ultimately build an even better future.

Twitter: @RichHall80

Inter are licking their wounds after a painful Champions League exit but resume the Serie A title chase against Scudetto holders Napoli tonight and should be proud of their campaign, writes Richard Hall.

Inter can mourn the loss to Atletico Madrid, but they do not need to procrastinate. Yes, they indeed underperformed in the second leg. It is true that the players underperformed, and it is true that they should have been out of sight in the first leg, but what they’ve achieved this season should not be underestimated. This is a team that will, unless things go incredibly wrong, win the Scudetto and will finish the season with immense pride.

As Lautaro’s penalty failed to convert, the roars from the Metropolitano could only be deafened by the noise of Italy’s main broadsheets typing away back home. They were rightly criticised, the game was a blow, a waste and mistakes were made. As one of the leading media outlets said, the night was a mixture of defensive substitutions, missed chances and uncharacteristically poor defending. Benjamin Pavard, Marcus Thuram, and the players who missed the penalties came in for criticism and Gazzetta declared the night a ‘slap to Italian football.’ Perhaps this is all true.

Inter have been on an incredible run, not defeated in Serie A in 2024, and they have played a lot of games, including the Supercoppa in the Middle East, which they won for a third consecutive season, overcoming Lazio and Napoli. They have been unstoppable in the domestic campaign and last weekend dragged out a result against in-form Bologna. Simone Inzaghi had to rotate and he did it with gusto. He’s been professional and intelligent in the use of the squad and Inter can claim to be the strongest in the division with proof to back that up.

For many, the defeat in the Champions League is a surprise with the backdrop mentioned above. The papers and the fans will pick apart the tactics, the substitutions and the penalty kicks and they will be right in doing so. On the day, Inter failed. There is no hiding. They did not improve on the year before when they reached the Final. The question, however, should focus on the context of the bigger picture. The Nerazzurri are still in an incredible place and are playing excellent football. As any supporter of any team from Serie D to Serie A can tell you, they all have off days. Did Inter come at the worst possible moment? Yes, does this derail the project and the ambition? Absolutely not.

Let us be clear: many pundits in Europe had Inter down to be in the final of Europe’s elite competition, just as they would have been with Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, and Manchester City in most seasons. This will not change next year either. There is the argument that the Nerazzurri will be one of the best teams in this year’s competition, but their failure in Europe will be a blow well felt. The argument as to why it is not devastating is here.

When Juventus were winning back-to-back Serie A titles, they were terrific domestically, but in Europe, they fell short. This became an issue of how far the club could go, Inter are not there yet. Before one can demand European success as a necessity, one must first concentrate on sorting one’s house out, which is the crucial point for Inzaghi’s men. First, win the Scudetto; they do it back-to-back, then add the Coppa Italia, and once domestic dominance is complete, then expectations can look towards a ‘necessity’ of winning in Europe.

In today’s society, hard work is often neglected, and the end result is expected. For Inter, success is lifting the Scudetto at the end of the season and then going again. As of now, that looks credible, as Inter (before Atleti) had won the previous 13 games in all competitions in 2024.

Also, bear this in mind. Inter can afford to lose five games (take, for instance, Napoli, Empoli, Udinese, Cagliari and Milan), and providing they win the remaining five (Torino, Sassuolo, Frosinone, Lazio, Verona), they will win the title, even if Juventus and Milan win all their remaining ten games. So, I ask you, from the ten games mentioned above, will Inter get 15 points? I think so. That will be star number 20, and the season will finish in style with hope for the future. So don’t cry for Inter, it was a terrible night in Madrid but the future is bright.

@RichardHall

Hakan Calhanoglu has become one of the best midfielders in the world under Simone Inzaghi at Inter, and Richard Hall analyses how Turkey international has developed at the Stadio Meazza since joining the Nerazzurri from city rivals Milan in 2021.

‘Still us’ was the Inter tagline after they retained the Supercoppa Italiana for the third time in a row in January. The celebrations in Riyadh reflected the delight of the players as they secured their first trophy of the season. Exiting the Coppa Italia to Bologna was a blow; however, victory in this Final gave them a much-needed boost in the hunt for the Scudetto and proved they could go deep into the Champions League, like last season.

Calhanoglu has undoubtedly had a key role at the Stadio Meazza this season, showing the best version of himself. His transition to Inter marked a significant chapter in his footballing journey, showcasing his adaptability and contributing substantially to the team’s success.

Renowned for his technical prowess and vision, Çalhanoglu’s playing style seamlessly aligned with Inter’s tactical approach under Simone Inzaghi. At the heart of Çalhanoglu’s impact is his distinctive playing style, characterised by his exceptional ball control, precise passing, and lethal left foot. His ability to orchestrate play from midfield positions or operate in advanced roles highlights his versatility. Hakan’s set-piece prowess adds an extra dimension to Inter’s attacking threat, making him a valuable asset during dead-ball situations. Tactically, Çalhanoglu’s integration into Inter’s system has been seamless. Just look at the game against Monza before the Supercoppa where Inter demolished the Brianzoli 5-1. He was everywhere in that game and looked unplayable.

The game against Juventus was probably his best performance at Inter. The Turkey international registered 94% passing accuracy and made headlines for a lovely cross-field pass that set up Federico Dimarco and Marcus Thuram for Inter’s opener that was only avoided by a perfectly-timed sliding clearance from Gleison Bremer. Inzaghi hailed Calha as one of the best Registas in the world and it’s hard to argue with the Nerazzurri tactician.

The Piacenza-born coach has had a vital role in Calhanoglu’s development. Inzaghi’s tactical philosophy revolves around fluid attacking movements and quick transitions and this was showcased against Juventus to perfection. Çalhanoğlu’s spatial awareness and intelligent positioning contributed to the team’s ability to break down the opposition defence, allowing him to seamlessly link up play between midfield and attack. One of the notable aspects of Çalhanoğlu’s development at Inter has been his enhanced defensive contributions. While primarily known for his attacking prowess, he has embraced defensive responsibilities within Inzaghi’s system. His work rate and ability to press opponents have added a valuable layer to Inter’s overall team dynamics, contributing to a more balanced and resilient unit. In 27 appearances this campaign, he has mustered 11 goals and three assists.

In the past, Çalhanoglu’s partnership with fellow midfielders and attackers has been crucial to Inter’s success. His understanding with key players, such as striker Romelu Lukaku and fellow midfielder Marcelo Brozović, has been pivotal in executing Inzaghi’s tactics effectively. The chemistry between Çalhanoglu and his teammates has translated into a potent attacking force that has troubled opposing defences in both domestic and European competitions. He now has the same link up with the present midfield, fullbacks and forwards and with Nicolo Barella, Inter’s midfield is one of the best in Europe.

Off the pitch, Çalhanoglu’s leadership qualities have come to the fore, further solidifying his importance within the team. His experience and composure bring stability to the squad, especially during crucial. It is no surprise that this link with Barella (as mentioned), Lautaro, Thuram and others like Davide Frattesi is equally as good, and this is telling, as it shows that he is adaptable with the men around him.

Calhanoglu has always had natural talent, but one must cast their mind back to when he joined from Milan, and there were some question marks at the time. It seems hard to believe as now he is the lynchpin in the midfield, and his patience, hard work, and adaptability have allowed him to be ‘Mr consistent’. As long as it is ‘Still Inter’, you can be assured that it will ‘Still be Hakan’ pulling the strings.

@RichHall80

If Inter have the best defence in Serie A, much of the credit goes to Yann Sommer so Richard Hall explains how the Swiss keeper has quickly become an idol to Nerazzurri fans, who no longer miss André Onana.

In the realm of football, goalkeepers are the unsung heroes, and Sommer is no exception. The Swiss shot-stopper has carved a niche for himself in the world of football, showcasing unparalleled goalkeeping abilities that have made him a formidable force between the posts. A signing From Bayern Munich in the summer, Sommer has been an artist of goalkeeping for Inter this season. His ability has made him a guardian of the goalpost that has helped the Nerazzurri to top the table and progress in the Champions League.

Inter have finished second in their European group behind Real Sociedad and despite the Italian media criticising Simone Inzaghi for too much rotation, the Nerazzurri will still be seen as one of the favourites for the competition. Admittedly, the change in personnel hampered the game against Benfica (despite the glorious comeback), and it could be argued they should have finished top of the group. However, the rotation will have helped the race for the Scudetto. One thing is for sure, Sommer has been a huge influence in both competitions.

His goalkeeping prowess is immediately apparent in his commanding presence on the field. Standing at six foot one inch tall, his imposing figure fills the goal, instilling confidence in his defenders and striking fear in the hearts of opposition attackers. His ability to dominate the penalty area during set-pieces and crosses adds a layer of security to his team, as he organises the defence with vocal instructions and strategic positioning. Just look at the game against Torino, his punching from crosses was superb and his ability to keep hold of the ball on three other critical saves made him stand out in this game as very secure.

He has filled a void that Andre Onana left and nobody in the black and blue side of San Siro is missing the new Manchester United keeper. Sommer is the first goalkeeper to collect at least 10 clean sheets in his first 15 Serie A matches in the three-point era (since 1994/95). His last league game saw him shut out Udinese in a 4-0 win, whilst he also stopped Real Sociedad from scoring as he helped Inter draw 0-0 in the Champions League. A game he also excelled in was the first fixture in Spain when he helped Inter avoid a two-goal deficit with some superb saves.

One of Sommer’s standout attributes is his acrobatic agility. His lightning-quick reflexes and cat-like movements make him a formidable force in one-on-one situations and when facing powerful shots from close range. Sommer’s ability to make split-second decisions and execute acrobatic saves has avoided countless goals and become a spectacle that fans eagerly anticipate. Look at the save from the free kick against Empoli, for instance, or the close-range save from Rafael Leao in the Derby Della Madonnina; the list is endless.

Modern goalkeepers are often expected to be adept with their feet, and Yann Sommer is no exception. His proficiency in distributing the ball accurately and swiftly is a crucial asset for his team’s build-up play. Sommer’s precision in short- and long-range passes allows his team to transition seamlessly from defence to attack, making him an integral part of the team’s overall strategy. This was something Samir Handanovic lacked, Onana had but was often too risky. Sommer has the ability and the mental capacity to make this look easy. He is solid and technical with his feet.

At the core of Sommer’s goalkeeping prowess lies his exceptional shot-stopping ability. Sommer’s positioning, anticipation, and quick reflexes make him a formidable barrier, whether it’s a thunderous strike from outside the box or a close-range attempt. His consistency in denying opposition attackers has earned him a reputation as one of the most reliable shot-stoppers in the game. This is best seen in the game against Napoli. Just a few examples in this game see him save from a distance as Stan Lobotka hit an excellent effort that was swerving away from him; he parried superbly. There was a brave low save on his near post from Eljif Elmas and a superb reaction from a Victor Osimhen header that showcased his reactions. Perhaps the best was an unbelievable save from a snapshot from Kvaratskhelia where he got his fingers tips to the ball in an instant, thwarting a certain goal from the Georgian.

Goalkeeping is as much about mental fortitude as it is about physical prowess, and Sommer exemplifies this resilience. Whether facing a penalty kick or dealing with the pressure of a high-stakes match, Sommer remains calm and composed. His ability to bounce back from setbacks and maintain focus under pressure has earned his teammates’ trust and the fans’ admiration. He showed this against Cagliari, where Inter was slightly off at times, but his composure shone through.

Sommer’s goalkeeping abilities transcend the traditional role of a shot-stopper. His commanding presence, acrobatic agility, distribution mastery, shot-stopping excellence, mental resilience, and sweeper-keeper instincts collectively make him a super signing by Beppe Moratta. Sommer’s impact extends beyond individual saves; he is a linchpin in his team’s defensive strategy and a key contributor to their overall success. As football enthusiasts marvel at the artistry of Sommer, it is evident that he has elevated the goalkeeping position to new heights, leaving an indelible mark on the beautiful game. He has arguably been one of the signings of the summer.

@RichHall80

Serie A leading scorer Lautaro Martinez returns to action with Inter today after the international break and Richard Hall explains how the Nerazzurri star has become a dressing-room leader at the Stadio Meazza and one of the best strikers in the world.

Diego Milito spoke in glowing terms about Lautaro Martinez back in the summer, calling El Toro a ‘point of reference for Inter.’ El Principe has been following Lautaro’s steady development since they were teammates at Racing Club, where, in 2015, Lautaro made his senior debut as a substitute replacing the legendary Nerazzurri striker.

Since his arrival at Inter, Lautaro’s humility, professionalism and leadership have grown alongside his technical development. He has been an understudy, partner and target man, but now he has started to look like he could move into the station of words we use too often: elite and world-class.

What we have to understand about Lautaro is that he hasn’t always been like this. When he first arrived he was lucky to be taken under the wing of the South American contingent. Let us not forget that the great hope for him was to become the ideal No.10 to Mauro Icardi, the classic No.9. At the risk of upsetting every Inter fan on the planet, we need to look back and accept one thing: Mauro was an exceptional striker and he helped his compatriot immensely, especially when it came to settling in.

• Read more – Marotta compares Lukaku to Skriniar, hints at Lautaro extension but Inter’s ‘big player must be sold’

Forget the agent, the social media and all the noise surrounding the striker now based in Turkey. Icardi was exceptional at one thing, scoring goals, and it was here that his friendship with Lautaro and the way he taught him to be clinical were forged. Now Inter are seeing the benefits but Icardi wasn’t the only one to help.

Playing deeper, just behind Icardi saw Lautaro learn how to come from deep and be later into the play and the box. We still see this in his game today and whilst he has managed to be as clinical as Mauro in front of the goal, it is easy to see he has more to his game.

This ability was amplified when Antonio Conte arrived at the Stadio Meazza. Under the Italian tactician, Lautaro could use his pace and attack from deep and, last but not least, he found a perfect strike partner. For the second time in this article, I shall try to explain myself before infuriating Inter fans again. It can’t be denied that Romelu Lukaku also had a significant influence on Lautaro’s career. In the Belgian, Lautaro found a forward he perfectly connected with. A completely different type of player than Icardi, but along with Lukaku, they terrorised defences with their pace and power, leading Inter to a title-winning campaign in 2020-21.

Here comes the supreme credit for Lautaro. It would be easy to say that his relationship with Romelu was unique, but it wasn’t. He had a fantastic understanding with Icardi too. This is the point. There is not a striker struggling to play with Lautaro. This comes back to his humble nature and the fact he puts the team before himself. Well, at least until now. The way he is evolving is quite incredible. From being an apprentice with Mauro to co-host with Romelu, he has now taken on the mantle of being the number one and for the opposition, that is scary.

The current Serie A leading scorer has already netted 10 times in eight league matches. With Champions League games, the tally rises to 11 goals in 10 appearances across all competitions. These figures and his maturity – he was also named Inter captain at the beginning of the season – allow us to talk about him in those cloudy words like ‘world-class’ and ‘elite’.

• Read more – Marotta: ‘Lautaro Martinez is Messi of Inter’

Loyal, humble, deadly, as strong as a bull – no coincidence his nickname is El Toro – and just as determined. Lautaro is starting to make the world question that he isn’t just good, he is setting the level. Inter resume their Serie A campaign after the international break with a tough away game at Torino on Saturday and Lautaro will be their obvious point of reference up front, whether he starts – as expected – or not. The last time he was introduced from the bench, he scored four goals in 27 minutes against Salernitana, so it’s evident he can make the difference at all times. Inter will need more of the same to earn the second star this season and let Lautaro lift his first trophy as the team’s captain, crowning his stunning development on and off the pitch.

@RichHall80

It was a big summer for Inter who saw some of their stars leave, but added depth and seem to have replaced Romelu Lukaku properly with Marcus Thuram, but are they stronger than last season?

The blue and black half of Milan have had a strange summer. There has been confusion, a niggling sense of the process being underwhelming but then a warming realisation that all moves may actually make sense. Now as Inter move into the opening games of the season, they look possibly the most complete and deepest squad in Serie A. Add the fact that they have a motivated group of players who all want to be here and play for the shirt and the Nerazzurri world seems a little less complex.

Marcelo Brozovic was sold to Al-Nassr, with Davide Frattesi coming in to replace Croat, but the turning point of Inter’s summer was Romelu Lukaku. Without procrastinating on this subject, it has to be said that the ‘zen’ feeling the Nerazzurri faithful feel is not really down to meticulous planning. Instead, one could even argue that Beppe Marotta and company have achieved even more than they thought possible, especially when forced into a reactionary position due to the Belgian striker. What followed next was a domino effect. Yet even in these circumstances, the Milanese side seem to have come out on top. 

Lukaku, as many know, decided that he would not return to Inter despite most of the deal being agreed with Chelsea. His courting of Juventus and Milan left a bitter taste amongst the Inter staff and players and the deal fell through despite Inter selling Andre Onana to Manchester United to fund the move. Due to the fact Inter had brought the Cameroonian keeper in from Ajax the season before on a free, this still left them up financially although Samir Handanovic and Alex Cordaz had left too.

• Read more – Club-by-club: Serie A summer transfer windows rated

Inter’s new custodians became the top priority in July. Raffaele Di Gennaro, an ex-Inter player, came back as a third choice on a free transfer, Yann Sommer arrived as Inter’s No.1 from Bayern for €6.8m after a long wait and finally a very astute signing as they took Emil Audero on loan from Sampdoria. This was good business as Onana had left for €53m and Sommer is widely seen as an excellent keeper to boot as he showed against Cagliari in match day two.

Defensively, Inter also had a rebuild of sorts. Milan Skriniar – as everyone already knew – left for PSG at the end of his contract and Robin Gosens joined Union Berlin for €13m. A club favourite, Danilo D’Ambrosio, left for Monza and Valentino Lazaro returned to Torino for €4m.  

Juan Cuadrado came in from Juventus on a free, followed by the talented Carlos Augusto on an initial loan deal from Monza and Yann Aurel Bissek for circa €7m from Danish side AGF Aarhus. The big signing at the back, Benjamin Pavard, followed Sommer from Bayern Munich after a lengthy courtship and it now looked as though Inter had a defence that had upgraded in depth.

The midfield and forward positions were also furnished with new options, but some deals gave Marotta and Inter fans a headache during the summer. Weeks after the already mentioned Lukaku saga, Lazar Samardzic was as close as ever to moving to the Stadio Meazza having already undergone his medical with the Nerazzurri.

However, his father excluded agent Rafaela Pimenta from negotiations and sat down with the Nerazzurri directors making high salary demands. It didn’t make Inter happy, to say the least, so the transfer collapsed after days of uncertainties. Giovanni Fabbian, who should have joined Udinese as part of the deal, returned to Inter joining Bologna a few weeks later. Samardzic has remained at Udinese, while his father and Pimenta entered a war of words days before the deadline day.

Without Samardzic, Inter changed their strategy signing Marko Arnautovic from Bologna and Pavard from Bayern Munich. Arnautovic returned to the club after 13 years, joining Lautaro Martinez and Marcus Thuram who had completed a free transfer at the beginning of the summer.

• Read more – All completed Serie A transfers in 2023 summer transfer window

The Frenchman seemed on the verge of joining Inter’s city rivals Milan, but Marotta, who had already negotiated with Lillian’s son in January, hijacked the Rossoneri’s offer, securing the first signing of an exciting summer which ended with the free transfers of Alexis Sanchez and Davy Klaassen. The Dutch midfielder was the ‘icing on the cake’ to put it into Marotta’s words.

Whilst other comings and goings still went on with reserves and Primavera players coming in and out the above were the players of note and early signs are positive. Inter kept the core of their squad and have upgraded in certain positions. The mix of experience and youth seems just right and the early games against Monza, Cagliari and Fiorentina saw Inter secure three victories with convincing performances, eight goals scored and none conceded. The start was strong and Inter do not seem to miss Lukaku much. Thuram has settled in quickly with one goal and two assists in three Serie A games and overall Inzaghi has an even deeper squad than last season.

Inter now have a real chance at challenging for the Scudetto and their title aspirations will be high even though Milan, Napoli and possibly Juventus will also be thinking the same thing. What is important about this Mercato is that Inter have strength in depth and all of the players who have arrived seem to have hit the ground running in their brief outings.

With Inter’s season starting tonight against Monza, Richard Hall looks at the latest Nerazzurri signings and notes that whilst Carlos Augusto enters as the new young hope, perhaps fans should not be too quick to dismiss the return of prodigal son Marko Arnautovic.

It has been a strange Mercato for the Nerazzurri. André Onana was sold to make funds for a man who never arrived. Still, with no Romelu Lukaku, there was money to strengthen the squad. Goalkeepers were the priority as Samir Handanovic had also left the club. Yann Sommer and Emil Audero have arrived at the Stadio Meazza, following the likes of Marcus Thuram, Davide Frattesi and Yann Aurel Bisseck, but Beppe Marotta had not completed the job yet.

Carlos Augusto and Marko Artanutovic are the latest additions to Simone Inzaghi’s squad and one more centre-back may arrive before the end of the summer transfer window. Carlos Augusto has been seen as an exciting proposition, meanwhile, the 34-year-old Arnautovic raised eyebrows.

Augusto arrived from Monza on a loan deal worth €4m with an option to buy for a further €7m Euro and €4m in performance-related bonuses. Carlos made it clear when talking with Inter TV that he wanted to emulate his namesake ‘Roberto Carlos’ who was his idol when growing up. Born in Sao Paulo and starting his career at Corinthians, it is no surprise that he wanted to copy the man in his position. 

In his only Serie A season at Monza, Inter’s first league opponent in 2023-24, Carlos Augusto scored six goals and managed five assists playing as a left wing-back, proving to be one of the most exciting players in that position. The 24-year-old has replaced Robin Gosens on the left flank at the Stadio Meazza and his arrival will give Inzaghi a chance to move Federico Dimarco in a three-man defence when needed, although the Italian remains the starter on the left flank.

When watching Augusto, you first notice his pace but that is just the beginning. He loves to drift inside and overlap with the left-hand side midfielder. More than one of his goals saw him score from inside the box. The power with which he strikes the ball, however, is undoubtedly one of his main assets and you can see why he has based himself on ‘Roberto’.

The arrival of Arnautovic did not match Inter fans’ excitement about the signing of the promising Brazilian left-back. The Austrian returned to the Stadio Meazza for €10m, 13 years after playing under José Mourinho in the Nerazzurri shirt. However, he only collected 55 minutes on the pitch during a legendary Treble-winning season in 2009-10. Even to his own admission, he was hot-headed and wasn’t concentrating on his football then.

He was like an ‘Austrian Balotelli’ and left the club for a decent career in Germany, England, China and Italy again. With 24 goals in 54 games for Bologna, he has become a dangerous, physically strong goalscorer with excellent technique. Like Edin Dzeko before him, he could offer much as he will provide something different off the bench for Inter. It could be a good move for a short time: his game does not rely on pace, but he has the attitude of a winner, unlike in his early days.

Whilst many may think that Inter’s Mercato has been slightly underwhelming, the Nerazzurri still have a key core that is very impressive. Those who wanted to leave were allowed to do so. Marotta capitalised on assets and, although everything has not gone to plan (Lukaku and Lazar Samardzic), they have invested and made some shrewd moves in the market. Inter are not done yet, that is for sure, but the latest two signings will surely have an impact. As ‘The Emperor’ said, wait until they leave the field to judge.

@RichHall80 

For the last month it seems as though Italy has been obsessed with the saga that has involved Romelu Lukaku and his ‘betrayal’ of his apparent love, Inter. The papers have been trying to guess his every move and like in some soap opera, it seems as though he may even end up with the Nerazzurri’s rivals, The Old Lady. Many have stated that Inter are somewhat lacking up front and it is true they still need one more player. However, it seems as if the signing of Marcus Thuram has gone under the radar, and he could be the perfect replacement.

At the time of writing it looks like Juventus are trying to orchestrate a loan move for the Belgian, similar to that which Inter had agreed last season. This would allow them to keep major assets like Dusan Vlahovic and still strengthen their front line. This will not go down well in the black and blue half of Milan, as it will be seen as the ultimate betrayal, something that the Inter ultras have certainly let Romelu know.

It resembles something a cheap TV soap may drag up and yet it is happening. Inter will probably not be overly concerned once they accept the indignity of it all. Romelu was not the same player he was under Antonio Conte, injuries aside he did not seem to fit into what Simone Inzaghi wanted to do. There were even rumours of an end of season bust up between the coach and the Belgian striker, as fuelled by ex-Nerazzurri custodian Sebastien Frey.

Whilst Inter are still active in the transfer market for a forward and more importantly two goalkeepers, they are not exactly stuck when it comes to attacking options and not enough has been made of the arrival of Marcus Thuram. His acquisition may be an extremely clever one, as he could easily surpass the 10 league goals scored by Romelu last campaign.

Thuram is from an elite sporting background. His father is the iconic defender Lilian Thuram, who played for Monaco, Parma, Juventus and Barcelona. A World Cup and European Championship winner, Lilian Thuram is the perfect mentor to guide both Marcus and younger brother Khephren, currently playing for OGC Nice. Just having a famous father does not mean that you will make it. Needless to say, Marcus has already established himself and at 25 years of age it is the perfect time for him to move to Serie A.

After his spell in the Bundesliga, where he played over 110 games for Borussia Monchengladbach, he let his contract run down and moved to the Nerazzurri. Thuram, renowned for playing out on the left wing, has been slowly evolving into a Number 9 and he has all the qualities to do so. This is where he has been used so far in pre-season and it might continue once the campaign kicks off.

Thuram is deceptive and this is his first advantage. At 6’4” tall, he looks like he might be gangly and somewhat awkward, but not so. He is extremely quick and very strong, making it hard for defenders to knock him off the ball. His step is firm, as he has a top centre of gravity, and this allows him to explode like a sprinter. Admittedly, he is still learning in this position and he is not at the elite level yet, but he is not far off. His speciality is when he comes deep and can run at defenders, as he has the opportunity to size them up, and he will be superb when Inter counter attack. 

He has the ability to become a very dynamic Number 9 and he is also good with his back to goal. His passing may need some improvement, but Inter have managed to get a talent who is close to crossing the line into becoming elite. Just remember, Lautaro was not there when he first joined, yet look at him now. 

Inter have managed to pick up a prestigious talent at a maturing age of 25 on a free transfer. This is almost unheard of. He may not be the best ‘off the ball threat’ but on it he will cause havoc and he should fit the system that Inzaghi employs. Inter fans take note, it might be better to look at what the club have brought in rather than what they have not. Thuram could be in for a big season.

Twitter: @RichHall80

Position: 3rd

Points: 72

Previous season: 2nd, 84 points

Best Serie A scorer: Lautaro Martinez, 21 goals in 38 Serie A games

Serie A Rating: 6/10

Season overview

This season for Inter was a strange one. Perhaps expectations have been rising ever since Antonio Conte won the Serie A title but Simone Inzaghi’s job has not been easy. Financial restrictions have been tough, Inzaghi still ended the season with two more trophies and a Champions League Final. However, when one looks at the Serie A table, there is a glaring issue. The 12 defeats are simply not good enough and the lack of draws suggests that the Nerazzurri really are a cup team, all, or nothing. If Juventus hadn’t fallen into the abyss it would have been worse.

Turnaround moment

This came against Empoli in April. The 3-0 win wiped away a poor run of form that had seen Inter almost fall off a cliff. Losses to Spezia, a draw against Porto and defeats to Juventus and Fiorentina were followed by draws against The Old Lady in Coppa Italia and then Salernitana in Serie A. The final indignity came against Monza when they were well beaten by a single goal, a result that saw many questions if Inzaghi had lost the dressing room and whether his substitutions were just simply too chaotic. The stabilising win against Empoli then saw eight straight wins in all competitions and effectively saved the season.

The Coach – Simone Inzaghi

Terribly hard to predict, his team still performed this season and when players were fit, they looked unbeatable. However, the Nerazzurri were never credible title contenders and struggled for consistency for several months. Some of Inzaghi’s tactical decisions looked dubious in the campaign. Late substitutions and sometimes a defensive look in big games saw many ask questions and yet, other times saw his teams look invincible as he managed to put a squad together and demolished some of Italy’s and Europe’s best, including Napoli, Milan and Barcelona.

Player of the Season – Lautaro Martinez

The Argentinian has edged this over the likes of Nicolo Barella and Federico Dimarco but either of those two players could have easily taken the crown for their displays. Perhaps Lautaro deserves this not just for the total of goals he has scored but the quality of them as well. His ability to play alongside Edin Dzeko and Romelu Lukaku made him untouchable in the eyes of Inzaghi and the numbers justified it. Only Serie A’s Capocannoniere Victor Osimhen managed more goals than Lautaro’s 21 in 38 league appearances. It has been mentioned before but El Toro is also a selfless player who will assist as much as shoots and for this reason, his tally is even more impressive.

Disappointing player of the Season – Joaquin Correa

Whilst many eyes will look to the defence here, it must be said that whilst not disappointing, frustrating is certainly the word. Joaquin Correa got to play 26 games this campaign albeit half of these off the bench. The talent and pace he has should make his totals better but three goals and a single assist have been a poor return for a man of obvious talent. At 28 years of age and playing for a coach he knows he should have been able to at least double that tally but alas for Inter, he could not come up to the standards necessary in this campaign.

@RichHall80

Position: 5th

Points: 64

Previous season: 8th, 59 points

Best Serie A scorer: Ademola Lookman: 13 goals in 31 Serie A appearances

Rating: 7/10

Season overview

This season for Atalanta went somewhat under the radar, but La Dea comfortably returned to Europe after finishing eighth in the previous campaign. Summer signings Ademola Lookman and Rasmus Hojlund replaced veterans Luis Muriel and Duvan Zapata who found themselves struggling for playing. Fifth place was an achievement and with a squad that is arguably on the better side of transition, hopes can be high.

Turnaround moment

This is an interesting one as in bizarre fashion it was the start of the season that gave the team the platform to finish in such an exalted position. The opening day saw the side from Bergamo start with style, they beat Sampdoria away in Genoa, 0-2, then went on a 10-game unbeaten spree where they drew with Milan, Cremonese and Udinese but impressively they dispatched Hellas, Torino, Monza, Roma, Fiorentina and Sassuolo before losing to Lazio. After this form was intermittent even though there were some highlights, mostly seen in the 8-2 win against Salernitana. Even so, they did enough to get over the finish line.

The Coach – Gian Piero Gasperini

The Italian tactician perhaps needs more credit than he gets at times. In previous years, he was talked up as Atalanta played swashbuckling football beating all comers in thoughts and deed. However, This season, the Bergamo side moved on over ten players. Remo Freuler, Cristian Romero, Pierluigi Gollini, Matteo Pessina and Josip Illicic were just a few to name. Once again, the Nerazzurri had to rebuild while Gasp had to adapt and respond. He did this to perfection and the side now looks like having a solid foundation for next season.

Player of the Season – Ademola Lookman

The former RB Leipzig man came in for approximately €9m and has been a hit since day one. A goal on his debut against Sampdoria in the 95th minute set the tone and he hasn’t looked back. With 13 goals and five assists it’s hard not to name him as the player of the season although midfielder Teun Koopmeiners may argue against that as he had a solid campaign, adding 10 goals in 33 appearances. Lookman has everything Atalanta want: pace, directness and the ability to play in various positions. The Nigerian has made himself a fan favourite and at 25 years of age, he’s proved to be a perfect investment.

Disappointing player of the Season – Duvan Zapata

While looking through the Atalanta ranks, one question always arises: who really underperformed? The team always boasted an interchangeable nature and anyone player can come in for another. Perhaps, and on the basis of Lookman’s success, this may be a harsh call but Duvan Zapata has not been able to impress as he has in the past. With 16 starts and nine substitute appearances, potentially should have given more than two goals and two assists.

@RichHall80

Alessandro Bastoni shone in Inter’s 2-0 win over Benfica on Tuesday and although he’s attracted interest from Manchester City and PSG, Richard Hall argues the Italy international should stay and make history with the Nerazzurri.

It has not been easy for Inter. The last-minute goal they conceded against Salernitana was tough to watch. Similar to the Ronaldinho strike against England in 2002 in the World Cup, it left many of the Nerazzurri scratching their heads.

This was also because Benfica was the next port of call, a fixture with a history for Inter, a nostalgic game blocking the way to a season highlight. The game was to be somewhat of a classic, but for this to happen, it needed some core players to stand up and take ownership: Alessandro Bastoni was not the only one to do so, but he, yes, he stood out.

The young defender is making a name for himself on the European scene. At the tender age of 23, he has surpassed the 100th’ league game mark for the blue and black team and is imposing himself as one of the best in the game. PSG and Manchester City are keen to speak to him (more about that later) but at present, he is focused on what is happening in Milan.

Bastoni, who gave an amazing assist for the goal scored by Nicolo Barella against Benfica, brushed off the compliments after the game by saying that it was simply one of those balls that comes off no matter how many times he tries. He was humble at the back of a beautiful display where he exhibited all of the qualities of a modern-day centre-back and in turn, why the top teams in Europe are after his signature.

“I always believed in Inter”, Bastoni told Sky Sport Italia after the match at the Estadio da Luz. There is no argument for his commitment. He feels the team have the right attitude and seems to be enjoying his football, but the better he plays the more he attracts other teams’ focus. He was remarkable against Benfica. QHe was quick effective, defensively and tactically superb and led from the front.

If we look at the foreign press, they would have us believe that the central defender’s future may end up elsewhere, but the noise from him could not be further from the truth. This is a focused, committed man with a strong affinity with the region.

As previously mentioned, the likes of PSG and Manchester City are looking at him yet, although his contract runs out in 2024. Inter have already begun negotiations for a new deal and are unwilling to part with him. Whether they manage to reach an agreement is a different story, although Alessandro is a die-hard fan of the Nerazzurri. Yes, Inter need to get him signed up and it’s likely they will, but his performances of late mean he just may be able to negotiate a more pleasing contract for his future.

Nevertheless, Bastoni is aware that he and his compatriot Nicolò Barella would represent the club’s future and he could go down in history for Inter. Bastoni seems mature beyond his years and wants to create a legacy rather than chase money alone.

It is true Inter have suffered in the league this season: losing 10 times is not ideal, however, if they can make the later stages of the Champions League, that would show just how huge Inter is as a club and a brand and Bastoni can be a long-term part of this.

@RichHall80

Inter secured a 1-0 win over Porto in the first leg of the Champions League Round of 16 on Wednesday and Richard Hall picks out some of the main talking points from the victory inspired by Romelu Lukaku and André Onana.

It was a Champions League night not to forget and it started even before the teams entered Stadio Giuseppe Meazza. Inter’s Curva Nord choreography was as well thought out and awe-inspiring as ever.

A great lighthouse shone its beams onto the Inter badge whilst the whole stadium was covered in blue and black, the words red ‘Love is a fixed beacon that towers over the storm.’ The Nerazzurri would win the game late on, so what did we learn about Simone Inzaghi’s team after this display?

André Onana

The former Ajax man made a string of incredible saves and the double stop in the 56^th minute was undoubtedly the best one he has made for Inter so far, which kept them in the game. Treble-winning keeper Julio Cesar said that his performance should warrant him being the first choice without argument.

His passion is also there to see his character. When Edin Dzeko urged him to stop complaining to the referee, he told him to ‘shut up.’ This was over straight away thanks to Hakan Calhanoglu, but it showed just how pumped up he was for the game: a clean sheet and marvellous performance.

Romelu Lukaku

The Belgian forward started the game on the bench and as the match wore on, it seemed his presence was needed. Porto were physical and Inter lacked a creative player in the midfield to break through. The game was played at an electric pace, but the team’s plans were not working.

Time for Romelu in the 58^th minute and the Belgian’s impact was incredible. He looked fit and powerful and in the 86^th minute, he got onto his own rebound to score the winner. Gazzetta Dello Sport was especially impressed, saying: “On the night he wanted, the one he had prepared for. Not just the goal, but the back-heel, the assist to Lautaro, the near-brace: if this is him, he can change Inter’s season.”

Hakan Calhanoglu

The Turkey international has been superb this season and has perhaps gone under the radar somewhat. He looked like a captain at times on the pitch, trying to dictate the tempo of the game and looking incredibly composed.

His set pieces were perfect and his thunderous strike was saved brilliantly by Diogo Costa, who was having the game of his life. Calha has certainly given Inter something different in midfield and against Porto he could have added a goal, but it wasn’t to be.

Wing-backs

Against Sergio Conceiçao’s side, Federico Dimarco, who has been superb all campaign, and Mattia Darmian were excellent. The Nerazzurri have four wing-backs they can interchange and on Wednesday night, they showed it. When the game was at its most frantic, the team knew they could not get through the middle and looked to the men on the flanks to help them. Darmian has been so consistent this season and this game was no different. His constant running saw him on the end of some horrible challenges. Dimarco was bombing down the left but also showed his brilliant delivery. It is no secret, but he showed it again against the Portuguese.

Deal with Port’so physicality

The final point is that Inter showed they could handle a very physical game under pressure. There may have been only three cards to Porto, one red, and one yellow to Inter, but both teams played tough. Players were not going down for the sake of it and it was undoubtedly Porto’s approach to stop Inter from playing and then counterattack. The injuries they had before this game means that this approach was reasonable, but Inter stood up and were up to the challenge. This could do them well when they encounter physical teams later in the season.

Inter must go to Porto in three weeks and it will be a very different game but the psychological nature of this first leg will help them in Portugal. There were some outstanding displays at San Siro on Wednesday night, which will give Inzaghi a headache when they face Bologna on Sunday.

@RichHall80

Lautaro Martinez pulled on the captain’s armband in the derby against Milan and Richard Hall believes nobody more than the Argentinean striker embodies Inter’s spirit, like some of the former Nerazzurri stars.

Lautaro Martinez was understandably elated as the Derby Della Madonnina on Sunday was decided by his strike in the first half.

Inter’s new captain was the shining light of this team and replaced Milan Skriniar as the Nerazzurri’s leader on the pitch after the Slovakia international agreed to join PSG as a free agent from next season: “I worked hard and wearing the armband makes me very proud,” said Lautaro after his derby winner.

He has certainly strived, especially after the World Cup he won with Argentina in December, scoring six goals in seven appearances for his club since returning from Qarar. Inter fans hope they are seeing a club legend in the making: Lautaro is 25 and has a huge future. He has a World Cup under his belt, a Coppa Italia a Supercoppa Italiana and a Serie A title, so what next?

Lautaro came to Inter with some expectations in 2018, but he was still in the shadow of Mauro Icardi. When the Benamata signed him, I interviewed Sam Kelly, who is running the Argentine football podcast ‘Hand Of Pod.’

“Jorge Sampaoli was watching from the stands on Sunday, and it’s no surprise that Martinez is now being talked about for a first senior Argentina call-up next month for the friendlies against Spain and Italy,” Kelly told me at that time.

“Given how little time there is until the World Cup [in 2018], it’s obvious what that means – and it’s hard to say he’d really look out of place, even if it does seem unlikely he will start. The list of clubs tracking him in recent months says everything. The sky’s the limit.”

The sky is the limit! That is the point. Another point that needs to be remembered here is that everyone saw how hard he worked with Icardi, providing so much for him. Everyone rightly talks about the fantastic relationship on and off the field he has with Romelu Lukaku, which eventually saw Inter winning a Scudetto that will never be forgotten.

However, Lautaro is as selfless as he is ruthless. He is becoming extraordinarily clinical, yet he still manages to be everybody’s perfect partner. Just look at the relationship he has formed with Edin Dzeko, who has had an incredible season, there is no doubt that much of this is down to how the Argentine has played with him. His fellow countryman, Joaquin Correa, has also looked confident when playing alongside him.

It is straightforward: Lautaro does the work, he has an amazing ability to be unselfish and yet ruthless. It is a strange combination. Mauro Icardi, Aldo Serena and Jurgen Klinsmann were all ready with goals and would have that killer edge, but Lautaro appreciates the bigger picture as well as the big target.

His practical attitude is similar to that of Diego Milito and that makes sense as he was under his tutelage at Racing Club. Giving him the captain’s armband seems obvious, but it is also a masterstroke from Simone Inzaghi: the extra responsibility will no doubt see Lautaro improve, the man is a workaholic and understands what that means.

Let us take that into perspective. Inter have other mature characters who are also young, like Nicolo Barella and Federico Dimarco, but Lautaro has been around at the club for a longer time, starting his journey at the Meazza with Luciano Spalletti in charge and continuing under Antonio Conte and Inzaghi.

It seems Inter will not catch Napoli this season, but if anyone can, it will be them. Lautaro can still lead his team to a potential Coppa Italia win and further success in the Champions League. The Nerazzurri have one of the best forward talents in Europe, if not the World, and the Argentine has proved he can be a difference-maker on the main stage.

He certainly did that in the Derby Della Madonnina, as he had done it many times before, with seven goals against the Rossoneri. Only Stefano Nyres has more. With more time to go, Lautaro may break that record and, in turn, become one of Inter’s great.

@RichHall80

Inter secured a 3-0 win over city rivals Milan in the Supercoppa on Wednesday and Richard Hall reflects on what to expect from the Nerazzurri in Serie A after their triumph in Riyadh.

The setting may not have been as hostile and as dramatic as San Siro, however, the Derby Della Madonnina always provides a sense of majesty even when played abroad.

This time, the Supercoppa Italiana was played in Saudi Arabia and the King Fahd International Stadium was at least more modern. It was a night that had more than just the implications of a single game. Yes, this trophy was important but as both Inter and Milan are chasing Napoli in Serie A, this was a match that would give the victors momentum in the domestic campaign.

Both Inter and Milan have won recent Scudetti and with Napoli so far ahead in the table, the teams playing out the Supercoppa were looking to get one up on their city rivals. Of course, the season’s first silverware would be important, but it would also be a huge confidence boost going back into Serie A.

With the trip to Saudi and the rigours of the season, both teams had to make some changes but when the line-ups were announced, both sides looked strong.

Inter scored twice early on, thanks to the ever-improving Federico Dimarco and the never ageing Edin Dzeko. Milan never recovered, and the Nerazzurri scored again late, thanks to poster boy Lautaro Martinez. The win was emphatic and saw Inter do what they have failed to do at points in the season. They started quickly and were not afraid of top-class opposition and what is more important, they were clinical.

The Italian press was as scathing to Milan as they were kind to Inter. ‘Super Inter’, Milan crushed,’ shouted the Gazzetta Dello Sport. ‘King of Cups’ claimed Corriere Dello Sport as they hailed Simone Inzaghi’s fourth win in this competition, also with a headline of ‘Milan Flattened’. Tuttosport led with ‘Inter show’ and claimed ‘Milan crisis’, perhaps somewhat dramatic on all parts, but as you can see, this game was more than just the Supercoppa, it has set the tone for the rest of the campaign and perhaps even more so as the manner of Inter’s victory showed that they look like favourites to chase down Napoli.

For Inter, things are positive. Dimarco, an Inter fan, is really changing the mould of what a modern full-back should be, not only because of the goals and assists he gets whilst still managing to defend. He was immense again against Milan and is a massive asset for the club, he said last night after the game that “The emotion is indescribable. Scoring in the derby, in the final of a Supercoppa, it’s just wonderful,” he told Sport Mediaset. “We had this hunger to win, we proved that on the field tonight with a deserved victory.”

Edin Dzeko was also superb and claimed man of the match, his form continues to impress, and despite being of a certain vintage, his goals have helped a team that has missed Romelu Lukaku. The 36-year-old has provided 11 goals and four assists, prompting Gazzetta Dello Sport to ask the question, ‘Why wait to renew his contract?’

They are right, his decision-making and ability to find space have been tremendous for Inter this term and as his game does not rely on pace, there is a strong argument that he has more years left in him.

Inter are ten points behind Napoli and the next three games for the leading side are (on paper) simple ones. The Nerazzurri will have to pull out performances like the one against Milan from now until the end of the season if they are to catch Luciano Spalletti’s team. However, they are still in the Coppa Italia after beating Parma and they have Porto in the Champions League.

They also have a lot to be optimistic about, with players returning from injury and good squad depth. Perhaps the win in the Supercoppa will give them the belief that this can be a successful season.

@RichHall80

Although Inter start the new year 11 points behind league leaders Napoli, they can still kick off the second half of the season with confidence, Richard Hall details.

There is no option other than to admit that Napoli are favourites for the title this year. Luciano Spalletti has been impressive this team and despite losing Lorenzo Insigne, Kalidou Koulibaly and Dries Mertens in the summer, the team have stepped up and are strong favourite.

Inter have struggled with the big games this year, against Lazio, Milan and Juventus they have floundered but with players returning from injury, they can be confident of chasing the Partenopei all the way to the finish line.

Marcelo Brozovic and Romelu Lukaku have been key to the Nerazzurri’s success in the last few years, despite the Belgian’s brief departure. The lack of these two game-changing individuals has had an effect as injuries have taken their toll. However, they are looking at coming back into the first team and this will help boost the Nerazzurri squad as they continue to chase down the Neapolitans.

Inter are arguably in a better place – from a strength-in-depth point of view – than they were last year and they have Simone Inzaghi at the helm, someone who is becoming more embedded in the club’s philosophy.

The reason for positivity for the Milan side is their strength in depth. Samir Handanovic, the club captain, may not be number one anymore but his performances in the recent friendly games have shown his ability to shine as a superb Nerazzurri custodian.

He might be needed as Andre Onana exited the World Cup with Cameroon under a cloud of controversy. Despite being phenomenal in the early campaign, Inter can only hope his issues with the national team won’t affect his club form.

Whilst many in Milan and abroad are desperate for Marcelo Brozovic to return, Hakan Çalhanoğlu has filled in and been a maestro in midfield providing a creative presence that has been missed. The Turk, along with Federico Dimarco, have been potentially Inter’s best players of the season and his ability to work with the team and the fact that his set pieces and his ability to shoot from range are an asset, is a positive along with his influence in the dressing room.

If we are talking about set pieces and range of passing, Dimarco has been immense this term. He has almost redefined what the modern full back has to do in the game we see today.

He is quick, has football intelligence and manages to dictate the play from a wide position. Andreas Brehme would be proud, as he is taking what a left back should be to another level. He is arguably Inter’s player of the season and a second half of this calibre would guarantee it.

One issue for Inter however, is the amount of games they have coming up. The Supercoppa against Milan, the Coppa Italia clash with Parma, the Champions League test with Porto and their Serie A commitments make the start with Napoli crucial.

The run-in will test all their resources and Inzaghi will have to be clever when it comes to rotations but this is where the first half of the season could help them; they have been pressed, they’ve had to use squad depth.

However, when teams will be pressed after the winter World Cup as players come back tired, the Nerazzurri will be confident that due to poor circumstances earlier in the season, many squad players have minutes under their belts.

It is for this reason that the Nerazzurri can approach the second part of the season with confidence. Players back from injury, squad players getting minutes and the cold hard fact that they have to catch a Neapolitan team that, whilst brilliant, still show some signs that they could drop off.

Milan and Juventus have had issues also, but the one issue Inter need to address is the ability to win in big games. Napoli, therefore, is the test. Inter know they can do it, referring back to Barcelona, but they need to do it in the league. 2023 is here now, and despite what they do in the transfer market the challenge starts in the first game.

@RichHall80

With Inter preparing for the second part of the campaign, Richard Hall highlights the five key players in their 4-0 win over RB Salzburg last week.

With the World Cup in Qatar occupying most of the globe, Inter were preparing for the return of the Serie A season in Malta, as they took on RB Salzburg this past Wednesday.

The Nerazzurri secured a comfortable 4-0 with goals came courtesy of Henrikh Mkhitaryan, Francesco Acerbi, Valentin Carboni and an own goal from Bernardo. With Italy not featuring in the World Cup, it allowed most of the Nerazzurri squad to be present and it was an important test to give Simone Inzaghi an idea of how the team were doing before they face Napoli on January 4.

Who were the best players in the game, and what did they show?

Samir Handanovic may have been ousted as Inter’s No.1 since Andre Onana arrived in Milan. However, the Inbrutalaptain showed that he is still more than capable. Not only did he keep a clean sheet, but he also made superb saves that kept Salzburg at bay. The best came when a shot was deflected off Milan Skriniar, the ball was heading to the top corner, but the veteran custodian showed his cat-like reflexes and tipped the ball over the bar. It was a sublime piece of goalkeeping that should make Inter try their best to keep him in January.

Roberto Gagliardini often gets a hard time from the Inter fans or, even worse, gets no press at all. Against Salzburg, he was at the heart of everything in the first half and whilst he may not have been scoring thirty-yard strikes or dribbling around four players, he showed his class. His ability to play the ball through in tight spaces helped the team build pressure immeasurably. It remains to be seen if he’ll be able to show the same in the second part of the season as his contract runs out in June and several Serie A clubs are said to be interested in securing his services.

Federico Dimarco has arguably been the best player for Inter this year as he has almost redefined what the modern full-back role is. The Italian defender has set Serie A alight this campaign. Assists were the name of the game against Salzburg and he was deadly on the left, providing for ‘Mki’ and in short, simply terrorising the opposition. His set pieces always caused problems and there is no doubt that this break has left no question that he is ready for the season to restart. It looks the enforced break has not crushed his enthusiasm and form.

Talking of Henrikh Mkhitaryan, it was fascinating to see how much of a role he could play in the second half of the season, as he was excellent against Salzburg. Many looked confused when Inter brought him to Milan. However, he seems to have replaced the missing creative need that Christian Eriksen so well filled. He put his name on the scoresheet, but more than that, he was everywhere and the Salzburg contingent could not contain him. He was unlucky not to get another goal when he couldn’t reach a header and was at the beginning of almost every Inter move. It feels like he has found a home in Milan and may not simply be a secondary player but a solid first team member in the coming months.

Finally, yet not least, Valentin Carboni needs to be mentioned in despatches. This young Argentine attacking midfielder needs to be watched out for. Son of Ezequiel Carboni, formally of Catania, he now plays for Italy’s U21 and is a natural talent. He scored a goal against Salzburg and showed he could break into the first team in the coming years.

Inter also have friendlies against Real Betis and Reggina before the campaign starts again. The Nerazzurri beat Atalanta before the break but had not started well and are 11 points below table leaders Napoli, their next opponent in Serie A.

The start has been slow, the Nerazzurri still have time to recover but are aware that there is no more room for mistakes. When the likes of Lautaro Martinez, Romelu Lukaku and Marcelo Brozovic are back, Inzaghi will finally have all his stars available, something that was not always possible in the first part of the season when the Belgian striker played just five games, while the Croat was forced to miss more than a month of action due to a muscle injury. The path to glory is still long, but the friendly win against Salzburg showed the Nerazzurri are ready to start again.

@RichHall80