Inter Milan Handed Huge Injury Blow Ahead Of Juventus Showdown – Veteran Defender Ruled Out

MILAN, ITALY - FEBRUARY 16: Francesco Acerbi of FC Internazionale looks on prior to the Serie A TIM match between FC Internazionale and US Salernitana - Serie A TIM at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on February 16, 2024 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Inter Milan defender Francesco Acerbi will miss out on the upcoming Derby d’Italia against old foes Juventus next Sunday.

According to Gazzetta dello Sport, as reported by FCInterNews, the veteran defender won’t recover in time for Bianconeri’s visit to Giuseppe Meazza.

Francesco Acerbi slumped to a thigh injury during Inter’s 1-0 win against Roma last weekend.

Unfortunately, the former Lazio star had to leave the field after only 27 minutes.

He underwent further checks in the build-up to tonight’s UEFA Champions League match against Young Boys.

However, test results indicated he is not yet fit to return to action.

Losing such a significant defensive piece for tonight’s outing won’t be devastating.

But the effects of Acerbi’s absence could be gravely felt against Juventus.

Stefan de Vrij, who took his place at the Stadio Olimpico, will likely fill his shoes on Sunday.

Inter Milan Handed Huge Injury Blow Ahead of Juventus As Francesco Acerbi Ruled Out

There are concerns that Acerbi could miss more than two matches this week.

Indeed, the 36-year-old will likely be on the sidelines when Empoli pay a visit to Giuseppe Meazza on October 30.

He’ll probably return to action at the start of November.

Simone Inzaghi hopes to have his defensive stalwart fit for Inter’s trip to newly promoted Venezia at the beginning of next month.

Given the magnitude of challenges awaiting Inter next month, they can’t afford to lose Acerbi.

After facing Venezia, Inzaghi’s charges will lock horns with Antonio Conte’s Napoli in a top-table Serie A six-pointer.

That’s not to mention a heavyweight Champions League encounter against Arsenal.

In the meantime, De Vrij will fill the gap.

But in addition to the Dutch veteran, Inzaghi can call upon the services of Yann Bisseck.

The German defender have been patiently waiting for his chance to become a regular starter after joining the club in the summer of 2023.