A report in the Italian press explains why missing the services of Francesco Acerbi wouldn’t be a devastating blow for Inter Milan.
The veteran has been a key component of the club’s backline since joining the Nerazzurri in the summer of 2022.
However, the 36-year-old could receive a lengthy ban if convicted of racial abuse.
The controversial incident ensued last Sunday during the Serie A showdown between Inter and Napoli at San Siro.
Napoli defender Juan Jesus accused Acerbi of using the n-word.
The Italian initially apologized on the pitch but then denied using racist slurs on Monday.
The FIGC prosecutor has opened an investigation on the matter and will listen to the two sides.
In the meantime, Acerbi risks receiving a 10-match ban which could deprive Inzaghi of one of his main stalwarts.
Nevertheless, La Gazzetta dello Sport (via FcInterNews) downplays the effect of the defender’s potential absence.
As the pink newspaper notes, Stefan de Vrij has been reliable once again this season.
The Dutchman had an off-night against Atletico Madrid in the second leg of the Champions League. However, he’s been solid otherwise.
The 32-year-old has been reduced to the bench since Acerbi’s arrival. However, he could reclaim a permanent starting berth and find himself at the center of the club’s project once more.
Inter Milan Have The Personnel To Endure Without Francesco Acerbi
Moreover, the report suggests that Yann Bisseck may also have the capacity to fill in at the heart of the backline.
The 23-year-old has been vastly improving since the start of the season, often impressing when given the opportunity.
The German has been primarily playing on the right side of the back-three. But GdS believes he has what it takes to marshall the backline in a more central role.
