Inter Milan forward Marcus Thuram has been ruled out of the Supercoppa Italiana final against AC Milan on Monday evening due to a mild strain in his left adductor muscle. The French striker, who sustained the injury during Inter’s semi-final victory over Atalanta, will not recover in time for the highly anticipated derby in Riyadh.
Thuram was substituted at halftime during the Atalanta match after experiencing discomfort in his left adductor muscle. The 26-year-old attempted to warm up during the interval but felt persistent tightness, prompting Inter’s medical staff to take a precautionary approach. Subsequent examinations conducted in Riyadh confirmed a mild elongation of the adductor muscle, leaving him unavailable for the final.
Inter issued a statement indicating that Thuram’s condition would be reassessed on Sunday, but with the packed schedule that lies ahead, his absence from the derby appears inevitable. Thuram’s recovery is crucial, as Inter face a demanding run of fixtures upon their return from Saudi Arabia, including Serie A clashes against Venezia, Bologna, and Empoli, as well as a crucial Champions League away tie against Sparta Prague on 22 January.
Thuram’s absence leaves manager Simone Inzaghi with a decision to make regarding who will partner Lautaro Martínez in attack for the final. Iranian forward Mehdi Taremi, who replaced Thuram against Atalanta, is currently the favourite. Taremi’s physical presence and ability to link up play make him a strong candidate to step into the starting role.
However, Joaquín Correa has emerged as another viable option. The Argentine forward, known for his technical flair and ability to operate between the lines, has been impressing in training and is eager to seize the opportunity. Correa’s dynamic style could complement Martínez’s goal-scoring instincts, giving Inzaghi a tactical alternative.
In better news for Inter, Alessandro Bastoni, who was substituted in the second half against Atalanta due to fatigue, has fully recovered and is expected to feature in the final. Bastoni’s availability ensures stability in Inter’s defence, which will be crucial against a formidable AC Milan side.
Thuram’s absence is a significant blow for Inter, particularly given the timing. The team’s upcoming schedule features four matches in ten days, including key domestic fixtures and a crucial European clash. Managing player fitness will be a priority for Inzaghi as he looks to navigate this challenging stretch while maintaining competitiveness on all fronts.
The Supercoppa final presents a major test for Inter as they aim to secure early silverware in the season and assert their dominance over their city rivals. Despite the setback, the Nerazzurri remain optimistic, with Taremi and Correa ready to step up in Thuram’s absence and Bastoni in shape to bolster the defence.
