Lautaro & Pio Esposito Lead Inter Milan Against Cremonese; Frattesi Returns

Morgan Winslow

Published: February 1, 2026 1:31 PM ET

Lautaro & Pio Esposito Lead Inter Milan Against Cremonese; Frattesi Returns

In a pivotal Serie A match, Inter Milan will face Cremonese with a notable lineup. Coach Cristian Chivu emphasizes the importance of this game as Napoli trails by six points after their recent victory.

Lautaro Martínez and Pio Esposito Lead Inter Milan Against Cremonese

Kickoff is set for 18:00 CET at Cremona, where Inter looks to build on their recent success. They secured a spot in the Champions League play-offs with a key win over Borussia Dortmund midweek.

Lineup Changes Due to Injuries

Chivu has made adjustments to his squad due to injuries affecting key players. Nicolo Barella, Hakan Calhanoglu, and Denzel Dumfries are sidelined, prompting Chivu to trust Lautaro Martínez and Francesco Pio Esposito in the starting eleven.

Starting XI:
- Lautaro Martínez
- Francesco Pio Esposito
- Alessandro Bastoni
- Manuel Akanji
- Yann Bisseck

Defensive Strategy

Despite the changes, Chivu’s defensive lineup remains consistent. Alessandro Bastoni, who previously came off the bench against Dortmund, will now start alongside Akanji and Bisseck. This trio has become a preferred choice while Acerbi and De Vrij have seen reduced roles.

Frattesi Returns to the Squad

Joining Martínez and Esposito in the attack is Davide Frattesi, who quells transfer rumors linking him to Nottingham Forest. His inclusion adds further strength to Inter’s offensive strategy.

The Right Flank Dilemma

The right flank has been a topic of discussion due to Denzel Dumfries’ ongoing recovery from injury. His absence opens the door for Luis Henrique, who will start on the right side today. Rumors regarding potential transfers, including interest from Premier League club Liverpool, continue to swirl around Dumfries.