Davide Frattesi and his struggles to shine at Inter Milan

The Italian midfielder has featured in seven Serie A matches, only one as a starter, but is still seeking consistency and confidence under Cristian Chivu at Inter Milan

Davide Frattesi has been part of Inter Milan’s recent league run, appearing in all of the last seven Serie A fixtures, though starting only once. 

In the Champions League, he began both matches against Union and Kairat, as coach Cristian Chivu continues to offer him opportunities to prove himself.

According to Corriere dello Sport via Fcinter1908, however, the midfielder has struggled to make an impact despite his regular involvement. “He would like more playing time, but it cannot be said that Frattesi is excluded from the new Inter Milan project,” the newspaper reports.
“The real issue is that he has failed to influence the team’s play or showcase his strengths. Against the Kazakh side, he appeared disconnected from the match, wasting a couple of good chances before being substituted after just over an hour.”

Chivu’s trust and Frattesi’s growing frustration at Inter Milan

Frattesi reportedly would have left Inter Milan had Simone Inzaghi stayed, but the arrival of Chivu convinced him to remain. 

The Romanian coach initially envisioned a different tactical role for him — a more advanced position in a 3-4-2-1 system that was later abandoned due to a lack of midfield options.

In a team now focused on more vertical play, Frattesi’s instinct for making late runs into the box should, in theory, be an asset. 

Yet so far, this has not been the case. Now in his third season with Inter Milan, his role remains unchanged, but his ambitions have grown, and he is demanding more playing time.

At the end of the last transfer window, talk of a contract extension briefly emerged, but “silence has since fallen,” notes Corriere dello Sport. 

Therefore, it would not be surprising if his potential departure resurfaces in January — and faced with a suitable offer, Inter Milan would likely not “build barricades” to keep him.