Inter Milan faces a tactical dilemma as Hakan Calhanoglu's international injury may sideline him against Verona, presenting both challenges and opportunities in their pursuit of Serie A and Champions League success.
Hakan Calhanoglu, the midfield maestro for Inter Milan, is expected to be absent from Saturday's Serie A match against Verona at the Stadio Bentegodi due to an injury he incurred while playing for Turkey on international duty, as reported by La Gazzetta dello Sport. Although the injury is deemed minor, it presents a tactical challenge for Simone Inzaghi as he aims to keep the momentum going in both the domestic and European competitions.
The 29-year-old suffered a muscle injury while playing for Turkey, which has sidelined him for their Nations League match against Montenegro. While initial medical evaluations indicated that the injury is not severe, Inter's medical staff is exercising caution as they await his return to Milan for additional assessments.
The timing of Calhanoglu's return from international duty has turned into a contentious issue. While Sky Sport Italia has indicated that Inter are making efforts to hasten his trip back to Milan, La Gazzetta emphasizes Turkey's unwillingness to allow the player to leave before the planned return on Wednesday.
The significance of Calhanoglu to Inter cannot be overstated. This Turkish international has played a vital role in their midfield setup this season, expertly controlling the game with accurate passing and making his mark with his signature long-range goals. Missing him, even for just one match, could throw Inter off balance as they gear up for a busy schedule that features an important Champions League match against RB Leipzig on November 26.
Inzaghi's careful strategy highlights the significance of the midfielder for the team’s ambitions in Europe. The Nerazzurri are said to be focused on ensuring that Calhanoglu is in optimal condition for their upcoming continental match, placing greater emphasis on his long-term health rather than immediate results.
Inter's midfield depth is set to be challenged, as potential replacements like Davide Frattesi and Stefano Sensi are anticipated to step in for Calhanoglu. Frattesi, in particular, has demonstrated moments of brilliance this season and might seize the chance to leave his mark. However, matching Calhanoglu's creative flair and capability to control the game's tempo will prove to be a formidable task.
For Verona, this situation could present a ray of hope against an often overpowering Inter squad. The Gialloblu, striving to ascend the Serie A table, might aim to take advantage of any vulnerabilities created by Calhanoglu's absence to interfere with Inter's midfield dominance.
