Inter vs Milan: Nerazzurri await crucial injury updates ahead of derby

Inter head into the Derby della Madonnina with doubts over Piotr Zielinski (calf and lower-back issues) and Denzel Dumfries (ankle). Punters should note Inter’s weakened midfield and right flank — consider backing Milan or the draw, or markets like Under 3.5 goals and Inter double-chance with a lower stake while waiting final team news.

Inter face injury headache ahead of Derby della Madonnina

Inter return from the international break with mounting concerns over the fitness of key players Piotr Zielinski and Denzel Dumfries ahead of Sunday’s Derby della Madonnina. The club is awaiting clearer medical updates as the match approaches, leaving the coach to weigh last-minute decisions on his starting lineup.

Zielinski returns from international duty with muscular problems

Piotr Zielinski impressed for his national team, scoring and assisting, but came back to training carrying pain in his calf and lower back. He admitted the discomfort was significant and the club has scheduled a tailored recovery programme over the coming days rather than immediate scans. If Zielinski is ruled out, Petar Sucic is in line to start in midfield.

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Dumfries ankle issue casts doubt over right flank

The more serious concern is Denzel Dumfries, whose persistent ankle problem has reduced optimism about his availability at San Siro. With doubts growing, the likely contingency is a switch to Carlos Augusto on the right-hand side if Dumfries cannot play, which would alter Inter’s defensive and attacking balance.

Team implications and tactical shifts

Henrikh Mkhitaryan is already unavailable, increasing the potential impact of Zielinski’s absence on Inter’s creative options. A midfield reshuffle — including Sucic stepping up — could reduce Inter’s tempo and link-up play, while a Dumfries absence would force a change in wing dynamics and full-back rotations.

How Milan could react

Milan will monitor Inter’s fitness updates closely and may adjust their game plan to exploit a potentially weakened right flank or a less dynamic midfield. The derby could become more cagey if Inter cannot field their preferred starters, with both managers likely to favor structure over expansive risk.

Match outlook and betting considerations

With key Inter starters doubtful, expect shifts in odds and market value in the hours before kick-off. Markets to watch: match winner (leaning towards Milan or draw), total goals (Under 3.5), and player availability props. Punters should wait for official team sheets but factor these absences into staking and alternative markets such as double-chance and reduced stakes on Inter.

Inter return from the international break with mounting concerns ahead of Sunday’s Derby della Madonnina,...

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