Inter Milan could be without key defender Manuel Akanji for Saturday’s trip to Lecce amid a fresh injury cluster. Punters should consider Lecce +1 on the Asian handicap or backing Both Teams To Score if Inter’s defence is weakened; alternatively, wait for the confirmed XI before staking on goal markets.
Inter Milan face new injury headache ahead of Lecce clash
Inter Milan arrive at the weekend’s Serie A fixture with fresh fitness concerns after several players picked up knocks in midweek. Manuel Akanji is reportedly doubtful for the trip to Lecce, with the coaching staff assessing whether he will recover in time. The side will be carefully managed ahead of the Stadio Via del Mare game as fatigue and muscle issues mount.
Who is carrying knocks?
- Manuel Akanji: Not fully fit and at risk of missing the Lecce game.
- Hakan Calhanoglu: Renewed muscle problem after a cameo against Juventus and missed the recent match.
- Lautaro Martinez: Picked up a calf issue during the last game and was substituted.
- Piotr Zielinski: Suffered a knock that leaves his availability in doubt.
Tactical implications and likely changes
If Akanji is ruled out, Inter may have to reshuffle the backline, with Yann Bisseck a likely candidate to come into the starting XI. The coach will face selection headaches as attacking options are also compromised by Lautaro’s calf problem and Zielinski’s knock. Expect a more cautious approach and possible rotation to protect players from further fatigue.
Team news timing and what to watch for
Final decisions will hinge on late fitness checks; managers often delay announcements to keep options open. Punters and followers should monitor the confirmed starting XI and any last-minute team sheets before placing bets.
Betting outlook
A weakened Inter backline increases the appeal of handicap and goal-line markets: consider Lecce +1 (Asian handicap) as insurance against an Inter win, or Both Teams To Score if defensive stability is in doubt.
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If Lautaro is absent, Inter’s outright goalscoring threat drops — check whether markets reflect a lowered Inter expected goals total before committing to overs or Inter win bets. Always wait for the official XI to reduce risk.
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