Question marks are hanging over the heads of Inter Milan star duo Hakan Calhanoglu and Francesco Acerbi ahead of the upcoming Serie A match against Juventus.
According to Corriere della Sera, as reported by FCInterNews, the Nerazzurri tandem is facing a race against time to make themselves available for Sunday’s Derby d’Italia.
Calhanoglu and Acerbi suffered injuries during Inter’s Serie A win against Roma last weekend.
Indeed, the former had to leave the field after only 12 minutes, being replaced by Davide Frattesi.
As for the latter, Simone Inzaghi took him off midway through the first half, introducing Stefan de Vrij into his place.
Both substitutes will likely start for Inter in Wednesday’s UEFA Champions League encounter against Young Boys.
However, the real problem is next weekend’s blockbuster against Juventus.
Inter have become dependent on Calhanoglu and Acerbi.
The Turkish midfielder has been instrumental in controlling the midfield.
Meanwhile, the Italian veteran’s defensive solidity has been crucial at the back.
Inter Milan Duo Calhanoglu & Acerbi Face Race Against Time to Regain Match Fitness Ahead of Juventus Clash
Their absence in the Champions League against out-of-sorts Young Boys is manageable.
However, the principal concern lies with their availability for next weekend’s high-stakes clash against Juventus.
Inter have grown reliant on their contributions, especially on Calhanoglu’s playmaking skills in the engine room.
Without the 30-year-old star, Inzaghi will probably have to adjust his midfield setting next Sunday.
Kristjan Asllani was Calhanoglu’s deputy last term. But he is not fully fit either.
Therefore, Piotr Zielinski could be in for his first Serie A start if Calhanoglu fails to recover in time.
The Polish star has been on the fringes since joining the club as a free agent in the summer.
As for Acerbi, De Vrij should be his replacement in the next two games.
After all, the Dutchman filled the vacancy at the Stadio Olimpico.
