Inter’s Champions League opener has been hit by a serious blow: Lautaro Martinez is not going to begin in opposition to Ajax on the Johan Cruyff ArenA. The information comes at a essential second for Cristian Chivu’s aspect, who need to bounce again from back-to-back home defeats.
The Nerazzurri’s captain was anticipated to steer the road on Wednesday evening, however experiences from Italy confirmed that he’ll miss the match. For a staff nonetheless looking for rhythm after a turbulent begin to the season, dropping its talisman raises the stakes considerably forward of this important European fixture.
Ajax and Inter Milan share a storied historical past, with legendary gamers like Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Wesley Sneijder, and Christian Eriksen having worn each shirts. This encounter marks their first Champions League assembly in 19 years, with Ajax determined to show the web page after a dramatic 2024–25 collapse that price them the Eredivisie title and noticed Francesco Farioli depart the membership.
Beneath new head coach John Heitinga, the Dutch giants have proven indicators of restoration. They sit unbeaten within the Eredivisie this season, scoring freely however nonetheless struggling to maintain clear sheets — a weak point Inter will look to use.
For Inter, this marketing campaign looks like a recent chapter. After reaching two Champions League finals in three years, Simone Inzaghi stepped down, paving the way in which for Cristian Chivu to take over. The Romanian coach, who as soon as lifted the Champions League with Inter, started his tenure with a 5-0 thrashing of Torino, just for the Nerazzurri to hunch to defeats in opposition to Udinese and Juventus, leaving questions over their readiness for Europe.
Lautaro’s absence defined
Halfway by way of preparations for the Ajax match, the actual motive behind Lautaro Martinez’s absence was revealed: he’s combating again ache and has not recovered in time to play a full position in Amsterdam.
In response to La Gazzetta dello Sport and Sky Italia, “The captain of the Italian membership is reportedly struggling together with his again. The 28-year-old accomplished particular person coaching however didn’t recuperate in time to play a major position.”
Martinez was compelled off in the course of the Derby d’Italia in opposition to Juventus final weekend and missed the Nerazzurri’s ultimate coaching session earlier than departure. Medical employees had hoped he may begin, however the choice was made to maintain him out of the beginning lineup to keep away from aggravating the problem.
For Cristian Chivu, it is a severe headache. “We have now to be sensible and defend him,” he reportedly informed membership media, hinting that Lautaro’s well being takes precedence over one group-stage match.
