Inter Milan have made adjustments to their Champions League squad for the second half of the 2023-24 campaign, including the addition of January signing Tajon Buchanan. However, there are notable exclusions, as coach Simone Inzaghi has opted to leave out experienced players Juan Cuadrado and Stefano Sensi.
Buchanan’s Inclusion:
Tajon Buchanan, Inter’s sole permanent signing during the January transfer window, has been included in the Champions League squad. The Canadian winger, known for his speed and versatility, is expected to provide additional attacking options for Inzaghi’s side as they navigate the knockout stages of the competition.
Cuadrado’s Absence:
Juan Cuadrado, a seasoned campaigner, finds himself excluded from the official Champions League squad. Reports suggest that Cuadrado is still grappling with an achilles tendon injury, prompting Inzaghi to make the strategic decision to remove him from contention for the knockout stage fixtures.
Sensi’s Omission:
Stefano Sensi, who was anticipated to depart during the January transfer window, saw his move to Championship leaders Leicester City collapse on deadline day. Although out of contract at the end of the 2023-24 campaign, Sensi will not feature in Inter’s Champions League journey, signaling a potential exit from the club.
Champions League Opponents:
Inter Milan is set to face Diego Simeone’s Atletico Madrid in the Round of 16, with the first leg scheduled for a home game at San Siro on Tuesday, February 20. The return fixture will take place in the Spanish capital on Wednesday, March 13. Both matches are slated to kick off at 20.00 GMT.
Squad Overview:
Inzaghi’s updated Champions League squad features a mix of experience and youth:
Goalkeepers: Sommer, Audero, Di Gennaro.
Defenders: Dumfries, Buchanan, Darmian, Acerbi, Bastoni, Bisseck, De Vrij, Pavard, Dimarco, Carlos Augusto.
Midfielders: Barella, Calhanoglu, Mkhitaryan, Frattesi, Klaasen, Asllani.
Forwards: Laurato Martinez, Thuram, Arnautovic, Alexis Sanchez.
