Inter Milan's New Signings Shine in Debut, 3511 Formation Debunked, Transfer Market Still Active

Inter Milan kicked off their Serie A campaign with a solid 2-0 victory over Monza, a team that troubled them last season. The win marked a positive start for Simone Inzaghi's revamped squad, featuring five new signings who all made their debuts. Despite concerns about integration following the significant squad overhaul since their Champions League final in Istanbul, Inzaghi’s calculated approach delivered promising results.

Inzaghi's Pragmatic Strategy

When asked about Inter’s transformation, Inzaghi acknowledged the extent of change: “We’ve lost some of the best players in Italy in their positions, but we’ve also gained useful players—some younger, some experienced. The entire team decided on this change together.” Such changes often lead to early-season struggles as teams grapple with cohesion. Many European sides undergoing heavy summer activity have experienced shock results early in their campaigns.

Inzaghi, however, opted for a cautious and practical approach, starting only two of his new signings, Yann Sommer and Marcus Thuram. The other debutants—Juan Cuadrado, Marko Arnautović, and Carlos Augusto—came off the bench in the second half. This measured strategy not only ensured stability but also allowed the substitutes to elevate the team’s performance in the latter stages.

Thuram and Arnautović Impress

While Thuram’s lack of goals across five preseason and competitive matches might draw criticism from highlight-watchers, his overall performance against Monza was a testament to his quality. The French striker’s stats underscored his contribution: 3 successful dribbles, 7 duels won out of 12, 3 free kicks earned, and a high passing accuracy in crucial build-up plays. His ability to accelerate transitions created numerous opportunities for Inter to exploit Monza’s unsettled defense, an element the team lacked last season.

Inzaghi praised Thuram’s efforts: “I am very satisfied with his performance. He attacks space with intent, contributes to transitions, and is improving every day. Let’s not forget he’s adapting from another league.”

Arnautović, meanwhile, demonstrated why he was brought in as a versatile option in attack. Despite limited training time—just three sessions with the squad—the Austrian forward delivered a crucial assist and completed two key passes. Inzaghi openly expressed his fondness for the towering striker, who fits his tactical preference for a physical presence up front: “He’s already struck a chord with the team and the fans at San Siro. He’s been here for only a few days, but his impact is evident.”

Augusto, Cuadrado, and Frattesi Boost Bench Depth

Other new signings also contributed positively. Carlos Augusto showcased his pace and precision during high-speed transitions, while Juan Cuadrado brought flair with his signature stepovers and creativity on the right flank. Davide Frattesi, replacing Lautaro Martínez late in the match, impressed with his combative presence, winning all three of his duels and adding energy to Inter’s midfield.

Even Yann Sommer, a less flashy addition as Samir Handanović’s successor, delivered a reliable performance between the posts, securing a clean sheet. The only debutant not to receive a positive rating was Kristian Bisseck, but his limited time on the pitch—just three touches—made it impossible to evaluate him meaningfully.

Debunking the 3511 Formation

A tactical adjustment in the closing stages drew significant attention, with Inzaghi substituting Lautaro Martínez for Frattesi. This led to speculation that Inter might be experimenting with a 3511 formation. However, Inzaghi dismissed such theories post-match: “It wasn’t a new formation. It was still a 352, with Henrikh Mkhitaryan pushing up to play as a forward. He did an excellent job, and I’m very pleased with his versatility.”

This flexibility stems from preseason experiments in which Inzaghi tested Nicolo Barella as a left-sided midfielder and Frattesi on the right. With Mkhitaryan capable of moving into advanced positions, Inter can fluidly shift roles without abandoning their foundational structure.

Correa’s Uncertain Future

The reshaped attack leaves Joaquín Correa in a precarious position. With Thuram, Arnautović, and Martínez all impressing, the Argentine forward has found opportunities scarce. Inzaghi’s decision to use midfielders in forward roles ahead of Correa has fueled speculation about his departure.

When asked about Correa’s situation, Inzaghi avoided direct criticism: “We can only field five substitutes from a bench of ten, so tough decisions have to be made. This doesn’t reflect on Correa’s quality.”

Still, the transfer market whispers persist, particularly linking Correa to moves in the Middle East. Fabrizio Romano has suggested that Saudi clubs are monitoring Correa’s availability. If a move materializes, Inter will likely need to sign another forward before the transfer window closes.

Two Market Goals

Inzaghi confirmed that Inter’s transfer activity is not over: “The window closes at the end of the month. We know we need one more important defender, and the club is working 24/7 to make that happen.” Inter’s pursuit of Benjamin Pavard remains active, with CEO Giuseppe Marotta confirming ongoing negotiations with Bayern Munich.

Meanwhile, the club must also navigate external uncertainties. Inzaghi alluded to potential disruptions from the Saudi Pro League: “We can never predict what might happen with interest from elsewhere.” This suggests that Inter is bracing for last-minute market surprises, particularly if Correa departs.

As fans speculate on Inter’s next moves, the club’s priority remains clear: fortify the defense and maintain squad depth to compete on multiple fronts. With five new signings already proving their worth and a manager adept at integrating fresh talent, Inter Milan appears well-positioned for the challenges ahead.