As Inter Milan and Fiorentina prepare to face off once again, both teams are eager to showcase their new signings and strategies. The previous encounter, which saw Fiorentina emerge victorious with a 3-0 win, was played under unique circumstances due to Lega Serie A rules. This time, however, both sides have the opportunity to field their latest acquisitions, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the match.
For Inter Milan, the absence of Denzel Dumfries due to suspension opens the door for new arrival Nicola Zalewski. The Polish wing-back, on loan from Roma, might make his first start for the Nerazzurri, although veteran Matteo Darmian remains a strong contender for the right flank position.
The formidable attacking duo of Lautaro Martinez and Marcus Thuram is expected to lead Inter’s offensive line once again. Thuram, who scored his first Serie A goal against Fiorentina in September 2023, is on the verge of setting a new personal best in league goals. With 13 to his name already this season, he needs just one more to surpass his previous record.
On the Fiorentina side, Moise Kean’s recent double has propelled him ahead of Thuram in the Capocannoniere rankings. Like his Inter counterpart, Kean is also on the brink of breaking his personal best tally in Europe’s top five leagues.
The Viola have bolstered their squad with several new additions, including Michael Folorunsho, Cher Ndour, Nicolo Fagioli, and Nicolo Zaniolo. The latter, having once played in Inter’s youth academy, adds an interesting subplot to the match. However, new signing Pablo Mari is doubtful due to injury, and promising defender Pietro Comuzzo is suspended for this fixture.
Fiorentina manager Raffaele Palladino’s tactical approach will be under scrutiny following his successful deployment of two sets of full-backs in the previous match. It remains to be seen whether he will stick with this winning formula or introduce changes to counter Inter’s threats.
Inter Milan (3-5-2): Sommer; Pavard, De Vrij, Bastoni; Darmian, Barella, Calhanoglu, Mkhitaryan, Dimarco; Martinez, Thuram
Fiorentina (4-2-3-1): De Gea; Dodo, Pongracic, Ranieri, Gosens; Adli, Mandragora; Colpani, Beltran, Folorunsho; Kean
