Inter emerged from the international break with the authority of a side determined to make October count. Parma were swept aside early at San Siro, allowing Cristian Chivu to take control of the evening and still protect his resources for Club Brugge’s visit on Tuesday.
The decision
The first weekend back had carried a degree of uncertainty for Inter after a long pause, but the return proved uncomplicated. Parma, still working to absorb Alberto Gilardino’s instructions, helped create the opening goal themselves, yet Inter’s response mattered more: aggressive from the outset, alert in their pressing and clear in their intention to impose themselves.
It was a different opening from Inter’s recent habit of finding themselves two goals behind in four previous starts. This time, the contest was largely settled within around 20 minutes before becoming an exercise in management. By Saturday night, Inter were top of the Serie A table, a temporary position perhaps, but one that carries its own value.
Chivu’s selection underlined the depth now available to him. Akanji, Zielinski, Lautaro Martinez, Barella and Bastoni all began outside the side, with the coach balancing the effects of international duty against the European commitment ahead.
The changes also created useful individual stories. Sucic, returning after Croatia’s 7-0 defeat, scored Inter’s first goal. Calha returned from a physical problem and converted the penalty for the second. Lautaro was able to build rhythm ahead of the Champions League, while Stankovic was handed more minutes and received a notably warm reception from the San Siro crowd.
Spence was also welcomed with curiosity, reflecting supporters’ desire to see more of a summer intake that has so far been scarcely visible. The other English arrivals, Stones and Jones, remain unavailable.
The break appeared to have helped Diouf in particular. After making his France debut in an unfamiliar role, he returned looking more assured and more forceful in Inter colours. For Chivu, it was evidence that international football can restore as well as drain a squad.
Napoli also resumed with purpose, avoiding the danger posed by Frosinone, who had halted Como before the break. The opening penalty was a debatable one and did not appear entirely consistent with the recent officiating direction associated with Orsato, but Napoli had plenty else to take from the result.
Allegri’s team created several chances, produced a well-worked move for the second goal and saw De Bruyne at a stronger level. Lang and Neres were influential close to Hojlund, while McTominay’s return after his heart problem was another important development. The celebrations on both benches, with Allegri and Alvini animated on the touchline, spoke to a match that eased some of the detachment Napoli had shown early in the season.
Sunday’s picture
The weekend now turns towards Como against Roma, a meeting carrying the weight of an early contest for the side best placed to challenge Inter. Como’s rise has given the fixture greater significance, while Roma have an opportunity to strengthen their own place in the developing order.
Milan and Juventus face a different kind of pressure. Neither can readily accept another stumble, even if Sassuolo and Cagliari offer awkward opposition rather than straightforward assignments. A draw in either match would feel much closer to a setback than a useful point.
Serie A has returned from its pause with the familiar rhythm already re-established: the leaders setting the pace, contenders measuring their margin for error, and coaches using every available player to navigate a demanding autumn schedule.
