Calhanoglu eyes key role in Inter Milan Derby amid uncertain future

Turkish midfielder ready to lead Inter Milan despite injury concerns

With just three days to go before the crucial Scudetto clash between AC Milan and Inter Milan, Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera has taken a closer look at one of the expected protagonists of the derby: Hakan Calhanoglu.

The Turkish midfielder is set to play yet another Derby della Madonnina, a fixture he has experienced from both sides of the rivalry during his career. Each meeting has carried its own story, but this one could feel particularly significant.

Recently recovering from a calf injury setback, Calhanoglu remains Inter Milan’s second-top scorer this season with nine goals. 

His tally is even more impressive considering he has already missed 11 matches across league and cup competitions due to injury.

Despite not being at full fitness, the midfielder is pushing to start on Sunday, just as he did in the Coppa Italia clash against Como. 

At the moment, he likely has around an hour in his legs, but his leadership could be crucial for Cristian Chivu’s side.

Leadership needed as Inter Milan miss Lautaro

Calhanoglu is determined to step up at a delicate moment for the Nerazzurri. Since the injury to captain Lautaro Martinez, Inter Milan’s attacking department has struggled to deliver, with the other forwards failing to score in roughly 300 minutes of play.

At the same time, the team is not seeing the best version of key players such as Nicolo Barella and Marcus Thuram. 

In this context, Calhanoglu’s creativity and goal threat from midfield could become even more decisive in the derby.

Galatasaray dream still lingers

The match may also carry personal significance for Calhanoglu, who knows better than anyone whether this could be his final Milan derby.

Last summer, interest from Galatasaray appeared extremely strong. The Istanbul club were eager to bring the midfielder back to his roots. 

Although Calhanoglu was born and developed as a footballer in Germany, he has always maintained strong ties to Turkey.

At one point, his departure seemed almost inevitable, especially after strong comments from Lautaro Martinez following the FIFA Club World Cup. 

However, Galatasaray never reached the financial demands set by Inter Milan, who wanted at least €20 million for the midfielder.

Since then, coach Cristian Chivu has helped restore calm inside the dressing room.

Summer decision ahead for Calhanoglu

The situation could change again this summer. Calhanoglu will have just one year left on his contract, and after another season marked by physical ups and downs, Inter Milan may not push aggressively for a renewal.

A move to Istanbul could become an appealing option for the midfielder, not only financially but also emotionally. 

Playing for Galatasaray would fulfill a long-held dream shared by his family and even by the club’s supporters.

For now, though, Calhanoglu’s focus remains on the derby, where he hopes to guide Inter Milan in one of the most important matches of the season.

Source: Fcinter1908