Stones central pivot, Chivu's defense becomes interchangeable

John Stones is ready to become the new reference point of the Nerazzurri defense. The English center-back will arrive in Milan to undergo medical examinations and sign a two-year contract, before resuming his post-World Cup vacation. Meanwhile, the team has left for Hong Kong, the first stop of the tour that will continue in Australia.

According to Corriere dello Sport, Cristian Chivu envisions the former Manchester City player in the central position of the backline, with his teammates free to rotate based on tactical needs and the characteristics of the opponents. Akanji and Bisseck can occupy all three positions in the defensive line.

Carlos Augusto will be usable both as a left center-back and as a wing-back, offering alternatives to Bastoni and Dimarco. Pavard, on the other hand, will try to regain space on the right. After the departures of Acerbi, De Vrij, and Darmian, Inter has chosen to build a more dynamic and interchangeable unit.

Stones adds experience, quality in build-up play, and the ability to advance into midfield, increasing the options available to the coach. Chivu wants to make the backline more impermeable compared to last season, which ended with 35 goals conceded in 38 league matches. It will be essential to quickly find the right automatisms, especially with the Champions League matches ahead.

Josep Martinez will also be called upon to fit into the new system. Promoted to starter after the Sommer era, the goalkeeper will have to build understanding with a renewed, mobile line capable of adapting to any scenario. The new Inter starts from defensive solidity.