Lautaro Martínez's injury represented the last crack in a season already marked by uncertainties for Inter. With the team leading Serie A but with zero points in the Champions League, manager Cristian Chivu's management is under the spotlight. The goalkeeper, Lautaro's management and the lack of a plan B are the key points that determine the path of the Nerazzurri team.
Chivu, in his second year at Inter, has already shown that he can lead a high-level team. In his first season he led the team to win the Scudetto and the Italian Cup, forgetting the disastrous double against Bodo/Glimt. However, the second season is increasingly difficult and the pressure is greater. The Champions League is a battleground where the team must demonstrate that it is ready to compete at European level, and Lautaro's management is crucial. The striker has already played 18 games in nine months, surpassing his performances in the previous seven and a half years. The captain always wants to play, even when he is not at his best, but the final decision is up to the coach.
The goalkeeper problem is another critical point. Inter promoted Josep Martínez in place of a top-class goalkeeper, but the choice was criticized. Chivu has the Spaniard and Ivan Provedel at his disposal, but the use of a reserve goalkeeper can have negative effects. Psychological management is fundamental: the coach must convince the players that a correct pass is necessary and that a goalkeeper cannot be "lost". Competition can influence the decision, but it all depends on how the solution is proposed.
Inter's season will not be measured only by the Scudetto. The Champions League is an important economic and sporting factor. The absence of a plan B, as happened in the past, could become an insurmountable problem. Inter attack with mass, but the team no longer has the refined play of Simone Inzaghi. Chivu has raised the center of gravity and lengthened the departments, but the meticulous mechanisms no longer work in the same way. The risk of coming unstuck is around the corner, and the absence of a plan B could become an insurmountable problem. If in Italy the opponents go below the average pace, Inter can handle them without too much effort. In Europe, however, there are stronger teams and Inter must demonstrate that they are ready to compete.
In summary, Inter faces a difficult season with the Champions League and the management of Lautaro and the goalkeeper. Chivu must demonstrate that he is ready to make a leap in quality and manage the team effectively. The next match will be an important test for the Nerazzurri team, who will have to demonstrate that they are ready to compete at European level.