Corriere della Sera: Inter-Como, Chivu's tactical choices and Spence's growth

Against Como, Chivu opted for a radically different tactical setup compared to previous outings. According to Paolo Condò, writing in the Corriere della Sera, the most significant move was the management of Bisseck: the defender, who started in 11 of the previous 14 matches and was coming off a good performance in Rotterdam, was left out of the starting lineup not for technical reasons, but due to a precise tactical choice. Facing a team skilled in possession like Fabregas‘s side, the Nerazzurri coach preferred Akanji, who is better suited to operate in a deeper defensive line.

The same logic guided the other decisions: Dimarco moved up the flank, Carlos Augusto was placed in the three-man defensive line, with Bastoni tasked with taking on more responsibilities in the build-up phase. The result was a clear lowering of the Nerazzurri’s defensive line, dropping below 49 meters compared to the 63 recorded in the match against Fiorentina. This choice allowed them to exploit their physical superiority, limiting the main opposing playmakers such as Romero, Milla, and Nico Paz.

Looking at the last nine matches — six in the league and three in the cups — the overall picture is less negative than one might expect. In Serie A, the haul is 15 points out of a possible 18, with the only blemish being the defeat in the derby. In Europe, the loss to Bruges was balanced by the victory over Shakhtar, achieved in a match that could have ended very differently. The ambitions in the Champions League remain intact, although the open question is whether the deeper defensive line can become a stable solution or if the team will be able to correct its defensive weaknesses while maintaining a higher organization.

Among the positives highlighted by Condò is the growth of Spence: decent in the derby, more convincing in Rotterdam, and particularly brilliant against Como with a performance compared to Dumfries‘s style. A concrete response in a market affected by injuries, with several alternatives that have so far struggled to find consistency.

The issue of generational change remains open, which Inter will have to address gradually: replacing players like Lautaro, Barella, Calhanoglu, Bastoni, Dimarco, and Thuram will not be easy. Bisseck has so far been one of the most successful additions, and Spence’s growth adds an encouraging sign in this direction.