A report from today’s paper edition of the Milano based newspaper has detailed seven key aspects of Inter coach Antonio Conte’s fight for the league title this season.
The report begins by highlighting the importance of Belgian striker Romelu Lukaku. The 27-year-old is irreplaceable in the squad, both due to his goal contributions and leadership on the pitch, perfectly fitting Conte’s tactical system.
The calendar also benefits Inter, as tough games against Lazio, AC Milan and Atalanta are already behind them. Their toughest matches now in the run up to Christmas are against Napoli and second place Sassuolo.
The team’s defense is also important for the title race. The Nerazzurri have only kept one clean sheet so far this season, and Conte understands that a tight defense is crucial in a title race, so extra work will be done to shore up the backline and secure more clean sheets.
Arturo Vidal will also be important for Conte. The Chilean is coming off of three goals in two games for Chile and strong performances from him in midfield could easily turn the tide of games.
Alexis Sanchez’s role will also need to be further defined, considering that he earns around €7 million net per season, a high amount for simply a backup player. More rotations are expected up front, for both tactical variance and rotational need.
The emergence of Alessandro Bastoni has been one of the brightest spots of Conte’s reign so far, and securing a new contract for the Italian defender will ensure the young defender is happy in Milan.
Finally, the last key aspect of the title race will be Inter’s rotational players and options on the bench. With players’ fitness finally reaching the required level and seemingly the worst of the Covid-19 pandemic being endured, Conte can now rely on a significant amount of options in each game.
