Inter Milan's Season Risk Emerges Early: Four Solutions Considered, Barca Disappointment Seeks Redemption

When Hakan Çalhanoğlu was forced to leave training due to pain, a collective gasp of concern was felt throughout Inter Milan's camp: the feared scenario had arrived. Before the season even began, legendary defender Giuseppe Bergomi had predicted that Inter's greatest improvement this season compared to last was the increased strength and resilience across multiple positions, enhancing the squad's resistance to injuries and its stamina. However, he noted that the defensive midfielder role was an exception, potentially posing a season-long risk. Now, that risk has surfaced early. While this is a setback, it could also be a blessing in disguise. It is better for issues to arise at the season's start rather than during the critical, decisive period when there would be little opportunity for recovery.

Who will replace Çalhanoğlu? Sky Sports suggests that Kristjan Asllani is the most likely candidate. However, there might be an unexpected solution, such as Davy Klaassen, who occasionally played in a deeper role at Ajax. Gazzetta dello Sport outlined four possible solutions, indicating that even they had not received any definitive information from their sources. The four options include: Asllani stepping up, Henrikh Mkhitaryan shifting roles, Nicolò Barella moving positions, or utilizing Klaassen. Among the tactical community, there is more support for Asllani to start. Asllani is Çalhanoğlu's direct backup and has shown good form with the national team. In the first four Serie A matches, Inzaghi substituted Asllani twice, not giving debut opportunities to Pavard or Klaassen, partly as a reward for Asllani's hard work in training and partly to build his confidence.

However, some fans believe that if Asllani plays, Inter is doomed. Despite not watching full matches, they feel compelled to criticize young players to avoid being labeled as clueless by the senior fans. One thing is certain: whether Inzaghi opts for experienced players or gives Asllani a chance, in a five-substitution system, Asllani will definitely play in the upcoming match, if only to cover for Çalhanoğlu's absence.

During the summer, 3-4 teams were interested in signing Asllani, but the young star chose to stay at Inter. He knew that with Çalhanoğlu's limited endurance, he would have opportunities to prove himself. He is now poised to erase the shame of a critical miss last season against Barcelona in the Champions League. In the third minute of injury time, with the score tied at 3-3, Lautaro Martínez sent Asllani through on goal, but he failed to beat Marc-André ter Stegen. If that goal had gone in, it would have been a defining moment in Inzaghi's career—a victory against a top-tier European team, something he greatly values.

If Asllani had scored, his situation last season might have been very different. The criticism he faced might have been less severe, and his tumultuous first year at Inter might have been smoother. One's career can be significantly affected by key moments and actions. This is true not just in sports, but in life in general. Mistakes have been made, and there's no undoing them. The only way to change the narrative is through outstanding performances and results that overshadow past errors.

Young players who have succeeded at Inter, like Martínez and Marcelo Brozović, have also had their fair share of struggles early on. Both faced criticism and doubts but rose to become crucial players for the club. Conversely, Mario Balotelli, despite his immense talent, did not live up to expectations and remains a minor figure in Inter's history. Asllani now has the chance to turn his fortunes around in the Champions League this season, to rise where he once fell. There's every reason to hope for a bright future. Utilizing Asllani to fill Çalhanoğlu's role could be the most cost-effective and lasting solution for Inter's season-long concerns.

Four Potential Solutions

1. Kristjan Asllani: The most straightforward choice. Asllani is Çalhanoğlu's direct backup and has shown promise. He has already played in Serie A this season and is familiar with the team's dynamics. Promoting him would reinforce his confidence and reward his hard work in training. However, some fans remain skeptical, questioning his readiness for such a critical role.

2. Henrikh Mkhitaryan: Another option is to shift Mkhitaryan into the deeper role. His experience and versatility could stabilize the midfield. Mkhitaryan has played in various positions throughout his career and possesses the tactical acumen to adapt to new responsibilities.

3. Nicolò Barella: Moving Barella to the defensive midfielder position is also a possibility. Barella is known for his tenacity and work rate. However, this would require a significant tactical adjustment and might disrupt the balance in midfield.

4. Davy Klaassen: The wildcard option. Klaassen has occasionally played in a deeper role at Ajax and could bring a different skill set to the position. This option would be experimental and carries a higher risk due to Klaassen's limited experience with the team.

Asllani's Redemption Arc

For Asllani, this could be a pivotal moment in his career. The young midfielder is determined to make up for his missed opportunity against Barcelona. His decision to stay at Inter during the summer, despite interest from other clubs, indicates his commitment to proving himself. Asllani understands that he will have chances to step up, especially given Çalhanoğlu's stamina issues. This is his opportunity to change the narrative and establish himself as a key player for Inter.

Asllani's missed chance against Barcelona remains a sore point. Had he scored, it could have been a landmark moment for Inzaghi and a turning point in Asllani's career. Instead, it added to his struggles during his first season at Inter. However, young players like Martínez and Brozović have shown that it's possible to overcome early setbacks and become integral to the team. Asllani's path could follow a similar trajectory.

Building Confidence and Resilience

Inter's management and fans must support Asllani during this critical period. Encouraging young talent and giving them the confidence to perform is essential for long-term success. Asllani's hard work and dedication in training have earned him this opportunity. It's crucial for Inzaghi to make strategic decisions that foster Asllani's growth and confidence.

Using experienced players to cover Çalhanoğlu's absence might offer a temporary solution, but it won't address the underlying issue of building depth and resilience in the squad. Promoting Asllani and allowing him to gain experience and confidence could provide a more sustainable solution. This approach aligns with Bergomi's assessment that Inter's strength this season lies in the depth and resilience across multiple positions.

The early emergence of Inter Milan's midfield vulnerability, particularly in the defensive midfielder role, presents both a challenge and an opportunity. While Hakan Çalhanoğlu's injury is a setback, it opens the door for Kristjan Asllani to step up and prove himself. Asllani's development and redemption arc could significantly impact Inter's season. By addressing this issue now, Inter can build a stronger, more resilient squad capable of competing at the highest level.