Inter Milan Finally Finds Its Own Alberto: Dual Insurance Transfer Plans Confirmed by Two Club Giants

Inter Milan's resounding 5-1 victory over Monza showcased a team that's dispelled rumors of another “winter collapse.” Head coach Simone Inzaghi beamed with pride in the post-match press conference, addressing the media frenzy that had doubted Inter’s resilience. "Am I the best coach in Serie A when it comes to handling criticism? We are used to being criticized. The most important thing is having a team that stands by you," Inzaghi remarked.

Sky Sports highlighted that this Inter Milan side is distinctly different from the squads managed by Luciano Spalletti and Antonio Conte. Inzaghi’s stamp is evident in the team’s fluid transitions and rapid counterattacks. The diversity of goal-scoring threats is remarkable, with three players in the top five for Serie A goals and three in the top five for assists.

Henrikh Mkhitaryan: The Unsung Hero

Post-match, Inter's official channels called for fans to vote for the match MVP, listing Lautaro Martinez, who scored twice; Hakan Çalhanoğlu; Marcus Thuram, who had a goal and an assist; and Henrikh Mkhitaryan. Despite not scoring many goals this season, Mkhitaryan led the poll, which speaks volumes about his influence on the pitch. Mkhitaryan contributed significantly with an assist for Thuram’s second goal, orchestrating two other goals with the penultimate pass, and creating four key chances throughout the game.

His ability to accelerate and break lines with the ball made him a constant threat. More importantly, his involvement in Inter's most dangerous areas in the opponent’s half was critical. The team’s strategy sees the right flank stretching play and creating chances, while the left flank focuses on advancing the ball and breaking down defenses. In this dynamic, Mkhitaryan and Federico Dimarco have been pivotal.

Mkhitaryan’s role in Inzaghi’s system is more crucial than Alberto’s was at Lazio. Sky Sports described Mkhitaryan as having "vitality, decisiveness, and extraordinary flair." This blend of qualities is a key reason why Inter hurried to renew his contract before the new tax laws took effect in the new year. Despite his outstanding performances, Mkhitaryan remains humble, attributing his success to his teammates. "What’s the secret to playing well? Great teammates who support me, allowing me to do my best in an advanced position. I do what I have to, and they help me do it well," he said. Mkhitaryan believes he can still improve and aims to score more, though assisting teammates is equally rewarding.

Planning for the Future: Finding the Next Mkhitaryan

At 35, Mkhitaryan’s exceptional form prompts admiration but also concern for the future. Many wonder what could have been if he had joined Inter earlier in his career. However, it’s worth noting that Mkhitaryan’s current role and success stem from his evolution under Mourinho, transitioning from an attacking midfielder and winger to a mezzala. This transformation, combined with Inzaghi’s preference for technical midfielders over physical battlers, has created the perfect environment for Mkhitaryan’s talents to shine. If a younger Mkhitaryan had developed these midfield skills earlier, Inter might not have been able to afford him.

Inter is already planning for the future, seeking Mkhitaryan’s successor to ensure long-term stability. This forward-thinking approach is essential, as relying on an aging player without a clear replacement could be risky. Given Inter’s financial constraints, securing affordable yet talented replacements is challenging, especially for crucial positions like forward and midfield.

Dual Insurance: The Transfer Strategies

Inter’s CEO Giuseppe Marotta confirmed one strategy: signing Piotr Zieliński on a free transfer. "Transfer market activity is always active. We aim to seize opportunities. From January, we have the chance to negotiate with players whose contracts are expiring, but we haven’t reached an agreement yet," Marotta explained. If Inter can secure Zieliński, having both him and Mkhitaryan next season would provide solid depth and experience in midfield, giving the coaching staff peace of mind.

Simone Inzaghi revealed another strategy: trusting in Valentin Carboni. Inzaghi highlighted Carboni’s progress over the past season and expressed confidence in his potential. "He made significant progress last season. Although he didn’t play much, his training performance was excellent. This season, he has developed even further. We will decide together with the team about his future," Inzaghi said, hinting at a decision to be made regarding Carboni’s position between mezzala and second striker.

Notably, Inzaghi’s remarks about Carboni echoed those he previously made about Mkhitaryan, indicating that he sees Carboni following a similar developmental path. However, there is debate about whether Carboni should be recalled from loan or continue gaining experience elsewhere. Despite differing opinions, Inzaghi’s appreciation for Carboni’s technical skills suggests a bright future for the young talent.

The Mkhitaryan Effect on Inter’s Play

Mkhitaryan’s impact on Inter’s playstyle is significant. His ability to link midfield and attack, his vision, and his execution have made him indispensable. His presence allows Inter to maintain a high tempo and fluidity in their transitions, which has become a hallmark of Inzaghi’s Inter. Mkhitaryan’s influence extends beyond statistics; his movement, positioning, and decision-making elevate the entire team’s performance.

This reliance on Mkhitaryan underscores the urgency in finding a successor. Inter’s success this season is closely tied to his performances, and replicating this without him will be challenging. The dual insurance strategy involving Zieliński and Carboni provides a balanced approach to immediate and long-term planning. Zieliński offers an experienced, ready-made solution, while Carboni represents a developmental project with immense potential.

Financial Considerations and Market Realities

Inter’s financial situation complicates their transfer strategies. While they can offer high wages, their ability to spend large sums on transfer fees is limited. This reality makes finding young, affordable talents like Mkhitaryan difficult. The club must navigate these constraints carefully, balancing the need for immediate impact players with sustainable financial planning.

The focus on free transfers and developing young talents like Carboni reflects this strategic approach. Inter’s management understands the importance of planning ahead, ensuring that the team remains competitive while adhering to financial limitations. The success of this strategy depends on scouting, player development, and the ability to integrate new signings seamlessly into the squad.

Conclusion

Inter Milan’s triumph over Monza is a testament to their resilience and tactical evolution under Simone Inzaghi. Henrikh Mkhitaryan’s pivotal role highlights the importance of experienced, technically gifted players in Inzaghi’s system. As Inter looks to the future, securing Mkhitaryan’s successor is crucial. The dual strategy of targeting Piotr Zieliński and nurturing Valentin Carboni showcases the club’s commitment to balancing immediate success with long-term sustainability.

Inter’s journey this season continues to captivate fans and critics alike, with each match providing new insights into their growth and adaptability. The blend of seasoned professionals and emerging talents will be key to their continued success in Serie A and beyond.