Manuel Akanji Inter Milan
AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS - SEPTEMBER 17: Manuel Akanji of Internazionale is challenged by Kenneth Taylor of AFC Ajax during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 match between AFC Ajax and FC Internazionale Milano at Johan Cruijff Arena on September 17, 2025 in Amsterdam, Netherlands. (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)
Cristian Chivu is considering several adjustments to his Inter Milan starting XI ahead of Sunday’s lunchtime clash with Hellas Verona, with Hakan Calhanoglu and Manuel Akanji potentially rested.
Chivu looks to manage fatigue across a busy run of fixtures before the international break.
According to FCInter1908, Chivu is weighing up the possibility of resting Calhanoglu, who played the full 90 minutes and scored twice in the midweek win over Fiorentina.
Should the Turkish midfielder be given a breather, Nicolò Barella could step into the central role.
In this case, the Italian would be flanked by Piotr Zielinski and Petar Sucic.
Verona Vs Inter Milan – Akanji & Calhanoglu Set For Rest
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)
In defence, Francesco Acerbi is expected to return in the central position.
Meanwhile, Alessandro Bastoni likely to retain his place on the left.
On the right, Yann Bisseck could again start, potentially replacing Manuel Akanji if Chivu opts for rotation.
Meanwhile, Carlos Augusto is tipped to start ahead of Federico Dimarco on the left flank.
Up front, captain Lautaro Martinez should once again lead the line.
However, Ange-Yoan Bonny is currently favoured to start alongside him over Francesco Pio Esposito.