Inter’s response to another difficult Champions League night may begin with continuity rather than an immediate change in goal. Josep Martinez remains in contention to start at Bologna, with Cristian Chivu expected to speak with both of his goalkeepers before making a final decision.
The club and coach chose Martinez as their first-choice goalkeeper in the summer, aware that the early months could bring pressure as he settled into the role. That thinking has not disappeared after his second troubled European evening, and the current expectation is that the Spaniard will be protected rather than abruptly removed. Only an admission from Martinez that he does not feel calm enough to continue would make a change for the trip to Bologna more likely, and that scenario is not presently considered probable.
Chivu could instead postpone the switch until Wednesday, when Inter host Shakhtar at San Siro in a Champions League fixture they need to win to start improving their position in the group standings. Ivan Provedel may be handed his European debut for the Nerazzurri on that occasion.
The competition holds a particular memory for the Italian goalkeeper, who scored with a header against Atletico Madrid during his time at Lazio. Should he be selected against Shakhtar, Provedel could then retain his place for the league meeting with Fiorentina on Sunday the 25th, giving him at least two consecutive appearances.
Beyond that point, Inter are keeping their options open. Chivu may yet divide duties between Serie A and cup competitions, with the immediate priority being to manage Martinez through a delicate spell while ensuring the side have the necessary assurance for a decisive stretch of fixtures. The conversation between the coach and his two keepers will determine whether Bologna is the moment for a change, or merely another step in Martinez’s attempt to establish himself.
