Triple test ahead: Inter Milan face Roma, Union SG, and Napoli in season-defining stretch

After the international break, Chivu’s Inter Milan are set for three consecutive away games that will test the Nerazzurri’s depth, resilience, and ambition

When Serie A resumes after the international break, Inter Milan will be immediately thrown into a demanding sequence of fixtures: three consecutive away matches that could define their trajectory for the coming months.

The Nerazzurri will first travel to face Roma and Napoli — both currently leading the Serie A table — and will also play Union Saint-Gilloise in the Champions League, following earlier victories over Ajax and Slavia Prague.

In the meantime, while the international players are away, Inter Milan have scheduled a friendly match against Atletico Madrid on Friday — a preview of the Champions League clash that will take place on November 26.

Bonny’s rise and a team finding its rhythm

Sky Sport’s Andrea Paventi provided an overview of the team’s current form and what lies ahead:

“We’ll get another chance to see Ange-Yoan Bonny’s talent — he’s already scored two goals and provided three assists in his first six Serie A matches. 

This friendly will serve as a warm-up before a crucial run of games that will really define Inter Milan’s character.”

Paventi also pointed out that Inter Milan have lost just one major head-to-head — against Juventus — and now face two league leaders in Roma and Napoli, along with a key European fixture.

“With five straight wins and an excellent attacking record, Chivu’s side can aim high, including a direct qualification for the Champions League Round of 16,” he added.

Managing rotations and key returns

One of the biggest challenges for Cristian Chivu will be managing player rotations effectively. 

In the last three matches — against Cagliari, Slavia Prague, and Cremonese — the coach has made 19 changes compared to the starting line-ups, ensuring freshness and balance throughout the squad.

However, Marcus Thuram’s return remains uncertain after his muscle issue. His recovery ahead of the Roma match is “hanging by a thread,” according to Paventi, and will be assessed next week.

On the other hand, Lautaro Martínez is expected back in full training by Thursday, October 16, after Argentina’s games against Venezuela and Puerto Rico. Last season, he arrived just before facing Roma — and ended up deciding the match.

That precedent, combined with Inter Milan’s excellent momentum, makes the upcoming week one of the first major turning points of the Chivu era.

A defining moment in Inter Milan’s season

Three matches, three cities, and three chances to prove their strength.
This demanding away stretch will test Inter Milan’s tactical maturity, mental endurance, and ability to rotate without losing identity — all essential traits for a team that wants to stay among Europe’s elite.

Source: Fcinter1908