Yahoo Sports Ex Man United Veteran & Italy Star Vying For Starting Berth In Inter Milan Vs Lecce Serie A Clash
Inter Milan midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Davide Frattesi are reportedly competing for a starting role against Lecce this Saturday.
The reigning Italian champions had to settle for a draw in their opening fixture of the season against Genoa.
Therefore, the Nerazzurri will be hellbent on recording their first win of the campaign when they host Lecce at San Siro this weekend.
Simone Inzaghi’s starting lineup could include a few tweaks. As reported earlier in the day, Denzel Dumfries and Benjamin Pavard will likely replace Matteo Darmian and Yann Bisseck on the right side.
Moreover, Mehdi Taremi could come in for Lautaro Martinez following his full recovery.
But according to La Gazzetta dello Sport via FcInter1908, the middle of the park could also witness a change.
The pink newspaper claims Frattesi is vying for a starting role against Mkhitaryan.
As the source notes, the Armenian wasn’t at his best at the Luigi Ferraris last week. On the other hand, the Italian made a strong impact after entering in the second half.
The 25-year-old provided the assist for Marcus Thuram’s second goal which gave the Nerazzurri a a temporary lead.
Therefore, Inzaghi is reportedly considering giving the nod to the former Sassuolo man alongside Nicolo Barella and Hakan Calhanoglu.
Nevertheless, GdS still considers Mkhitaryan as the slight favorite to earn the slot.
Davide Frattesi Trying To Snatch Starting Role From Henrikh Mkhitaryan In Inter Milan Vs Lecce
But even so, the source believes Inzaghi will adopt a different approach this season.
Instead of backing the same starting trio, the coach will be making weekly evaluations, picking those he deems in better condition.
Mkhitaryan was almost omnipresent in last season’s starting lineup. But at the age of 35, he could see his playing decrease this term.
Moreover, Piotr Zielinski’s arrival will also provide more competition for this particular role.
The Pole missed the season opener through injury but should be fit enough for a place on the bench this weekend.
