Pre-season balance for the Nerazzurri between confirmations and delays in form

The pre-season has already provided interesting indications ahead of the start of the season. Among confirmations, surprises, and some players still searching for their best form, a clear picture emerges of who has convinced and who still needs to grow.

Martinez and Provedel in goal are both promoted. Two reliable goalkeepers, capable of providing security even in building from the back. In defense, Pavard did very well and earned confirmation. The surprise is the very young Bovio, who could find space and maybe make his league debut in the first few matches.

Stones was immediately a protagonist, even exceeding expectations considering his return just a week ago, while Akanji also gave excellent signals. Barella is already in great shape. Good signs also from Calhanoglu and Zielinski in midfield.

Sucic came on very well against Betis and already seems in top form. Stankovic, on the other hand, has all the qualities to carve out space, help the team, and grow behind his teammates.

The best news of the pre-season probably comes from Diouf and Dimarco. One on the right, the other on the left: both are in great shape and, at the moment, seem destined to start against Monza. Pay particular attention to Diouf, who will compete for a starting spot with Spence throughout the season.

Bastoni has not delivered memorable performances. He may need time to get over everything that has happened to him in recent months and to regain his best physical condition on the pitch. Carlos Augusto seems to perform better as a center-back than as a wing-back; when used on the flank, he shows some difficulties in the final third. After all, replicating what Dimarco does is practically impossible.

Luis Henrique seems to be more comfortable on the left than on the right, but even against Betis, when deployed on the right, he appeared ineffective and still searching for the right condition. He may leave Milan in this transfer window; Inter has informed him of this.

Esposito seemed rusty, with too many mistakes that are not typical of him. Bonny, on the other hand, was inconsistent: excellent against Juventus, more in difficulty in yesterday’s match, although he was close to scoring several times. Greater consistency is needed.

Finally, it remains to be seen how Thuram really is, while Lautaro still appeared a bit heavy. However, his grit is never lacking. And be careful about leaving him on the bench against Monza.