Calhanoglu Likely to Miss Inter's Match Against Verona

Hakan Calhanoglu, the midfield maestro of Inter Milan, is expected to miss the Serie A match against Verona on Saturday at the Stadio Bentegodi due to an injury he sustained while on international duty with Turkey, as reported by La Gazzetta dello Sport. Although the injury is considered minor, it presents a tactical challenge for Simone Inzaghi as he aims to maintain momentum in both domestic and European competitions.

The 29-year-old suffered a muscle injury while on duty with Turkey, leading to his exclusion from the Nations League match against Montenegro. While preliminary medical checks have indicated that the injury is not severe, Inter's medical staff is remaining careful and is awaiting his return to Milan for additional assessments.

The timing of Calhanoglu's return from international duty has become a contentious issue. While Sky Sport Italia has reported that Inter is making efforts to speed up his return to Milan, La Gazzetta points out Turkey's hesitance to let the player go before the planned Wednesday return.

The importance of Calhanoglu to Inter cannot be emphasized enough. The Turkish international has played a vital role in their midfield setup this season, skillfully directing play with accurate passes and contributing his signature long-range goals. Missing him, even for just one game, could throw off Inter’s momentum as they gear up for a busy schedule that features a key Champions League match against RB Leipzig on November 26.

Inzaghi's careful strategy highlights the significance of the midfielder for the club's ambitions in Europe. The Nerazzurri are said to be focused on ensuring Calhanoglu is in peak condition for their upcoming continental clash, placing greater importance on long-term health rather than immediate results.

Inter's depth in midfield will now face a challenge, as potential replacements like Davide Frattesi or Stefano Sensi are expected to step up during Calhanoglu's absence. Frattesi, in particular, has demonstrated moments of brilliance this season and might welcome the chance to showcase his abilities. Nevertheless, matching Calhanoglu's creative impact and his skill in controlling the game's tempo will be a significant challenge.

This situation could present a ray of hope for Verona as they face a usually powerful Inter team. The Gialloblu, who are striving to improve their position in the Serie A table, might seek to take advantage of the void left by Calhanoglu's absence to challenge Inter's midfield dominance.