With just over a week until the Milan derby, La Gazzetta dello Sport breaks down five key questions surrounding Cristian Chivu’s Inter, who enter the clash level on points with Roma and determined to assert their dominance against the Rossoneri, with Marcus Thuram and Hakan Calhanoglu set to play key roles.

The most notable storyline is the return of Thuram, who was left out of France’s international squad to allow Inter’s staff to manage his recovery precisely.

Having trained separately to regain full fitness, the Frenchman is expected to start alongside Lautaro Martínez, as per La Gazzetta’s reports.

Acerbi Edges Bisseck For Derby Start

Francesco Acerbi Inter Milan
BARI, ITALY – AUGUST 16: Francesco Acerbi of Inter during Pre-Season Friendly match between FC Internazionale and Olympiacos FC at Stadio San Nicola on August 16, 2025 in Bari, Italy. (Photo by Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images)

Chivu faces a familiar dilemma in defence, with Francesco Acerbi and Yann Bisseck battling for the final place between Akanji and Bastoni. The veteran’s composed display against Lazio could earn him the nod.

“Acerbi is back to his old standards,” writes La Gazzetta, noting that the 38-year-old, likely in his final season, “may have done enough to win back his coach’s trust.”

Chivu’s pressing structure will again be central: Inter’s 37 goals this season underline the success of their aggressive approach.

Even fouls, the report notes, are part of a “calculated risk” to sustain pressure high up the pitch.

Inter Vs Milan: Thuram Returns, Calhanoglu Calm, Modric’s Challenge

Hakan Calhanoglu Inter Milan
MILAN, ITALY – OCTOBER 29: Hakan Calhanoglu of FC Internazionale celebrates after scoring their team’s third goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and ACF Fiorentina at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on October 29, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Former Rossonero Hakan Calhanoglu enters the derby not out for revenge but as the conductor of Chivu’s high-tempo system.

“He’s no longer bitter towards Milan,” the paper assures, “but remains the heartbeat of this Inter – his passing sets the rhythm, and his vision launches their vertical play.”

This time, however, he’ll face a new duel.

“His counterpart is Modric, and there’s no more fascinating midfield battle than this.”

All signs point to Chivu’s Inter, now fully his own creation, heading into the derby with identity, intensity, and momentum firmly on their side.