Inter Milan head to Bergamo for Atalanta clash to start decisive month

Chivu set to trust his strongest XI as Serie A and Champions League intensity rises

After climbing to the top of the table before Christmas, and before the disappointing Italian Super Cup campaign in Saudi Arabia, Inter Milan are back in action for a crucial showdown in Bergamo against Atalanta. The match marks the beginning of a demanding and decisive month split between Serie A and the Champions League.

Given the packed schedule ahead, Inter Milan coach Cristian Chivu, injury situation permitting, appears determined to avoid rotation and rely on his core players.

Probable Inter Milan lineup

In defense, Manuel Akanji is expected to replace Acerbi in the central role, flanked by Yann Bisseck on the right and Alessandro Bastoni completing the back line on the left.

Midfield duties will be orchestrated by Hakan Çalhanoğlu in the holding role, while Luis Henrique is confirmed on the right flank.

Up front, the favored option remains the Thu-La partnership, although Pio Esposito still has an outside chance of earning a starting spot.

Probable Inter Milan XI:

Sommer, Akanji, Bisseck, Bastoni, Çalhanoglu, Luis Henrique, Barella, Mkhitaryan, Dimarco, Thuram, L. Martínez

Atalanta: Palladino expected to stick with his usual setup

As for Atalanta, Raffaele Palladino is not expected to spring any major surprises. The Bergamo side should line up with their customary formation and key figures, relying on tactical continuity and intensity to challenge Inter Milan in front of their home crowd.

The final choices will be made after the last training session, but all indications point toward the standard Atalanta approach for a match that could heavily influence the title race.

Probable Atalanta XI:

Carnesecchi, Djimsiti, Hien, Kolasinac, Zappacosta, De Roon, Éderson, Zalewski, De Ketelaere, Pasalic, Scamacca

Source: Fcinter1908