Inter Milan’s Injury Crisis Puts Pressure on Coach Inzaghi
Simone Inzaghi faced a tough start to the second half of the season as he led his team into a crucial Serie A match against Napoli. The Nerazzurri, already dealing with a significant injury crisis, were further hampered by the unavailability of four key players. Yann Sommer, Matteo Darmian, Carlos Augusto, and Nicola Zalewski were all sidelined, leaving Inter with a thin squad. The injury of Federico Dimarco during the game added another layer of difficulty to an already challenging situation.
Inzaghi Addresses the Substitution of Alessandro Bastoni
Inter Milan’s coach, Simone Inzaghi, addressed the decision to substitute defender Alessandro Bastoni during the press conference following the match. Bastoni, who had been performing exceptionally well, was taken off, a move that raised eyebrows among fans and analysts. Inzaghi was clear in his explanation: “Bastoni didn’t ask for the substitution. With Billings coming on, they added more height, so I brought on de Vrij. I had to choose between taking off Bastoni and Acerbi. Bastoni is fine, and he didn’t ask to be substituted, but we’re struggling in that part of the pitch.” The coach’s decision was driven by the need to adapt to Napoli’s tactical changes, despite Bastoni’s strong performance.
Inter’s Tough Defense Against a Strong Napoli Team
The match against Napoli was a grueling one, with the home team significantly improving in the second half. Inzaghi noted that “We had to do better on the equalizer. We’ll review it and analyze it.” The Nerazzurri’s defense was tested, and the lack of depth in their wingback positions was evident. Inzaghi highlighted the unprecedented nature of their lineup: “We’ve never had Dumfries at left-wingback and Pavard at right-wingback. Doing that against Napoli is always going to be a risk, but we had no alternatives.” The coach’s decisions were a reflection of the team’s current constraints and the need to make the best of a difficult situation.
更新 on Injured Players: Dimarco and Calhanoglu
Inzaghi also provided updates on the injured players, Federico Dimarco and Hakan Calhanoglu, who both came off the pitch during the match. He noted that “They tried to hold on for a bit after the first half, but they weren’t able to run through it. It’s just that kind of a time for injuries. The guys did their best against a team that improved a lot in the second half.” The coach’s concern was evident, especially with the upcoming Champions League matches. For Dimarco, Inzaghi stated, “It shouldn’t be anything serious, but Calha took a blow from a knee. Let’s hope it’s not as serious as with Carlos Augusto.” The team is already bracing for the possibility that Carlos Augusto might not be available for the crucial Champions League tie against Feyenoord in Rotterdam.
Preparing for the Champions League
The injury crisis is particularly concerning as Inter prepares for their Champions League round of sixteen tie against Feyenoord. Inzaghi expressed his concerns: “I don’t think Carlos will make it for Rotterdam. Let’s see with Dimarco. Darmian and Zalewski won’t be available.” The coach’s focus is now on finding the best possible solutions to field a competitive team against Feyenoord. The lack of depth in crucial positions, particularly at the flanks, will be a significant challenge, but Inzaghi is determined to make the best of the available resources.
Inzaghi’s Resolve and Team’s Resilience
Despite the challenges, Inzaghi’s resolve and the team’s resilience were evident throughout the match. The coach praised his players for their efforts against a formidable Napoli side. “The guys did their best,” he said. “We’ve been through a tough period, but we’re working hard to get through it.” Inzaghi’s leadership and the team’s fighting spirit are crucial as they navigate through this difficult period. As they prepare for their next matches, both in Serie A and the Champions League, the focus is on recovery and finding the right tactical solutions to overcome the current obstacles.
