Inter Milan head into Sunday’s Milan derby with a potentially title-defining opportunity, and Cristian Chivu is set to name his strongest available side as Pio Esposito and Hakan Calhanoglu both feature in the predicted lineup.

With Lautaro Martinez still sidelined, Esposito and Marcus Thuram continue as the striking partnership, as per Sky via FCInter1908.

Bonny has recovered from his calf complaint and returns to the bench as an option from the dugout.

Milan Vs Inter – Calhanoglu As Regista, Bastoni Back From Suspension

Hakan Calhanoglu Inter Milan
MILAN, ITALY – DECEMBER 06: Hakan Calhanoglu of FC Internazionale celebrates scoring his team’s third goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Como 1907 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on December 06, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Calhanoglu reclaims his place as the deep-lying playmaker after building up minutes against Genoa and Como.

Meanwhile, Barella and Zielinski complete the midfield three.

Bastoni returns from suspension to take his place in the back three alongside Bisseck and Akanji.

While Dimarco and Luis Henrique continue as the wing-backs.

A win at San Siro could put the Scudetto virtually out of Milan’s reach, and Chivu is taking no chances with his selection.

Predicted Inter XI (3-5-2): Sommer; Bisseck, Akanji, Bastoni; Luis Henrique, Barella, Calhanoglu, Zielinski, Dimarco; Esposito, Thuram.