Inter Milan could hand Francesco Pio Esposito a surprise start against Atalanta, with the Italy striker pushing to partner Lautaro Martinez in Bergamo.
According to Sky Sport, Esposito is competing with Marcus Thuram for a place in attack.
While Thuram remains the favourite in the probable line-up, the presence of Esposito among the main options represents the most intriguing selection possibility on the eve of the match.
At the back, Cristian Chivu still has a decision to make.
Yann Bisseck and Stefan de Vrij are battling for a starting role, with Manuel Akanji potentially shifting position depending on the final choice.
Atalanta Vs Inter – Selection Debate Over Mkhitaryan & Pio Esposito
Midfield selection also remains open.
Hakan Calhanoglu is set to return in the regista role, while the final central slot is being contested by Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Piotr Zielinski.
Chivu has also added several youngsters to the travelling group, with Taho, Cinquegrano, Spinaccé and Cocchi included as Inter prepare for the final fixture of 2025.
Whether Esposito gets the nod from the start or not, his presence underlines the coach’s willingness to consider fresh solutions in a demanding away test.
I hope he does. Marcus has been very lazy lately. I understand he might be saving his strenght to avoid injury and not miss the WC, but then he should step aside. Lautaro played on injections the end of last season. And durring the last WC. Marcus should go applaud his lying brother and step aside. Go Pio