It’s derby day in Serie A as Inter and Juventus go head-to-head in the 186th instalment of the historic Derby d’Italia. San Siro is sold out for what promises to be one of the defining clashes of the 25th matchday.
Inter come into the game needing a response to AC Milan’s 2–1 win at Pisa, which closed the gap at the top to five points. Juventus, meanwhile, are fighting to secure a Champions League spot and will be looking to bounce back after their Coppa Italia exit and a frustrating 2–2 draw against Lazio last weekend.
Chivu’s Choices and Line-up Decisions
Inter manager Cristian Chivu can count on almost a full squad, with only Denzel Dumfries still sidelined. His back three will feature the usual starters, although Francesco Acerbi is likely to begin on the bench with Manuel Akanji taking the central role.
In midfield, Chivu faces pleasant selection headaches. Both Nicolò Barella and Hakan Çalhanoğlu have recovered from injury, but only one may start. Piotr Zieliński is tipped to operate in the deep playmaker position, with the Turkish midfielder possibly starting from the bench. Up front, Lautaro Martínez and Marcus Thuram form the familiar strike partnership.
Spalletti’s Uncertainties and Tactical Options
Luciano Spalletti faces more complex decisions for Juventus, especially in midfield. The team could line up in a 3-4-2-1 formation, with Andrea Cambiaso on the right flank and the in-form Cabal possibly starting on the left.
The main concern is the condition of Khephren Thuram, whose availability remains doubtful. Should he miss out, Spalletti may choose between Teun Koopmeiners, Fabio Miretti, and Weston McKennie for the central roles. The positioning of McKennie could also affect whether young winger Francisco Conceição is given a starting berth. Up front, Jonathan David is expected to lead the line once again.
Probable Inter Line-Up (4-3-3)
Sommer; Bisseck, Akanji, Bastoni; Luis Henrique, Barella, Zieliński, Mkhitaryan, Dimarco; Thuram, Lautaro Martínez
Probable Juventus Line-up (3-4-2-1)
Di Gregorio; Kalulu, Bremer, Kelly; Cambiaso, Locatelli, Koopmeiners, Cabal; McKennie, Yıldız; David.
