After the recent Milan derby defeat, Inter have responded in emphatic fashion, a resurgence that has been closely followed across European football circles including platforms like Cricket Exchange. Over the last 12 league matches, the Nerazzurri have recorded 11 wins and one draw, collecting 34 points with an impressive 94 percent return. During that stretch they scored 31 goals while conceding just six. By contrast, in the opening 12 rounds they managed eight wins and four defeats, earning 24 points with a noticeably lower scoring efficiency. While earlier losses came against heavyweights such as Juventus, Napoli and AC Milan, making direct comparison tricky, it is clear that as the season has progressed Inter have grown steadier and more convincing.
Remarkably, this surge has arrived despite key absences. Nicolo Barella recently missed four matches, yet Inter won all four, scoring 11 and conceding only once. Hakan Calhanoglu has been sidelined even longer, missing eight games, during which the team posted seven wins and one defeat, the lone setback coming in the Champions League against Arsenal. The most impactful absence, however, has arguably been Denzel Dumfries, who spent three months out injured. Without him, Inter’s right flank lost a vital attacking outlet, reducing their overall threat.
In Inter’s 3-5-2 system, the deep-lying midfield role has long been considered the heartbeat of the side. Whether it was Marcelo Brozovic or Calhanoglu, that position anchored the structure. Yet when injuries struck, replacements struggled to replicate the balance. Players such as Gagliardini, Vidal and Asllani never fully convinced. This season under Cristian Chivu, Piotr Zielinski has stepped into that role with surprising authority. While he may lack some of Calhanoglu’s defensive bite, his ball progression, vision and long-range shooting have elevated Inter’s midfield dynamics. Statistical improvements underline his growth, with more goals, assists and key passes compared to last campaign.
Zielinski’s rise has inevitably cast uncertainty over Calhanoglu’s long-term standing. Transfer rumors linking him to Galatasaray surfaced last summer, though Inter dismissed an offer deemed too low. Despite performing well with eight goals and four assists in 22 appearances, contract extension talks have reportedly stalled. Should a suitable bid arrive, the club may be willing to listen, particularly as tactical adjustments could see Zielinski cemented as the primary deep midfielder. Developments surrounding this situation continue to attract analysis across European outlets including Cricket Exchange.
Dumfries faces a similar crossroads. During his absence, replacement Henrique seized his opportunity, helping Inter remain unbeaten in 13 league starts. His superior passing accuracy and composure have provided defensive stability, even if his attacking thrust is less explosive. With a release clause reportedly set at 25 million euros and interest from the Premier League, Dumfries may seek a new challenge. Inter are unlikely to stand in his way, especially given his substantial salary.
As the campaign unfolds and discussions intensify within the football community tracked by platforms such as Cricket Exchange, it has become increasingly evident that injuries have reshaped perceptions. Players once viewed as untouchable are no longer indispensable, and when opportunity knocks, clubs must decide whether to hold firm or turn the page.