Versatile defender Matteo Darmian is set to have a key role for Inter Milan in the next few weeks, in the absence of Benjamin Pavard.
Today’s print edition of Milan-based newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport, via FCInterNews, highlight how the Frenchman’s injury will once again put Darmian in the spotlight.
Last season, Darmian showed that despite being well into his thirties, he is more important to Inter than ever.
The former Manchester United and Torino man played regularly at right centre-back. This was to cover for Milan Skriniar whilst the Slovakian was out with an injury.
Skriniar left for Paris Saint-Germain in the summer. But Inter signed Benjamin Pavard from Bayern Munich to replace him.
Therefore, it looked as though Darmian would be more of a backup player than regular starter for Inter this season.
Matteo Darmian To Have Key Role For Inter With Benjamin Pavard Out Injured
Initially, it did look like Pavard had taken the starting role over from Darmian.
The 33-year-old did start quite a few matches, either at right-centre-back or right-wingback.
Moreover, Darmian also became a useful substitute option to see matches out.
But it has looked as though Simone Inzaghi has been trusting Pavard to slot right in.
But now, the Frenchman is out with a knee injury.
It is not exactly clear how much time that Pavard will miss. But it will certainly be several weeks – potentially a couple of months.
Therefore, as was the case when Skriniar was out with an injury, Darmian will once again become a key starter.
But Inter may not have to worry too much.
Darmian proved last season that he can be far more than just an emergency solution in defense.
On the contrary, the versatile Italian international looked like a true starting-quality player all the way to the Champions League final.
Now, the 33-year-old will be aiming to do it all over again.
