Inter Milan Coppa Italia Showdown: Chivu Taps French Duo Amidst Star Absences Against Como

POLICY WIRE — Milan, Italy — Inter Milan is poised for a critical Coppa Italia encounter tonight against Como, with head coach Cristian Chivu reportedly set to deploy a French attacking partnership comprising Ange-Yoan Bonny and Marcus Thuram.

This strategic move comes as the team faces significant absences, necessitating a reconfigured frontline for the crucial fixture. The decision was first reported by Corriere dello Sport, via FCInterNews, highlighting Chivu’s confidence in the duo.

High Stakes in the Return Leg

The upcoming match is effectively a winner-takes-all scenario, following a tense 0-0 stalemate in the first leg at Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia last month. Both clubs enter the return fixture with everything to play for, intensifying the pressure on Inter to secure progression.

The Nerazzurri will be without three key first-team players for this decisive game. Notably absent is talismanic striker Lautaro Martinez, known as El Toro, who is reportedly targeting a return for the Coppa Italia Final itself, should Inter advance.

In addition to Martinez, Inter’s defensive line is also impacted, with starting center-backs Alessandro Bastoni and Yann Bisseck sidelined. These absences create considerable challenges for Chivu as he prepares his squad.

Thuram’s Resurgent Form and Bonny’s Opportunity

Coach Cristian Chivu will undoubtedly be pleased with the recent form displayed by Marcus Thuram, who has overcome a challenging start to the new calendar year. The 28-year-old forward has found the back of the net in three consecutive Serie A matches, including an impressive brace during a 4-3 victory against Como in a prior league fixture.

Meanwhile, Ange-Yoan Bonny, though having found himself on the periphery for much of 2026, is expected to seize a rare starting opportunity. His last league start was recorded in March’s Derby della Madonnina, underscoring the significance of tonight’s inclusion.

Bonny, a former Parma striker, is anticipated to be given the nod ahead of the less prolific Francesco Pio Esposito for this vital cup tie. Such strategic decisions by head coaches are frequently in the spotlight across European football, with ongoing discussions around managerial shifts at clubs like Celtic.

Impact of Key Absences on Squad Dynamics

The absence of crucial players like Martinez, Bastoni, and Bisseck places immense pressure on the remaining squad members to step up. The need for strong performances from key players is universal in top-tier football, as clubs like Chelsea also grapple with managing squad dynamics and transfer speculation.

Inter’s ability to navigate these significant personnel gaps will be a true test of their depth and resilience as they aim to progress in the Coppa Italia.