Roma and Inter approach their meeting with different selection questions, but both coaches are shaping their sides around absences, recent performances and the demands of the Olimpico. Mario Hermoso has eased one concern for Roma after returning to full training, while Inter are preparing changes following their win over Udinese.
Roma regain Hermoso but retain choices across the pitch
Hermoso trained with the group on the eve of the match after missing Wednesday’s session because of an ankle knock. The Spanish defender is therefore expected to take his place in the back line.
- The central defensive decision is between Evan Ndicka and Leonardo Balerdi. Ndicka is currently ahead, although Balerdi’s pace when recovering towards his own goal remains an important consideration.
- On the right, Lulli and Molina are competing for a starting place. Whoever is chosen will have the task of containing Federico Dimarco’s attacking runs.
- Matias Soulé is pushing for a role in attack, but Pisilli could instead be used as the attacking midfielder.
- Choosing Pisilli in that position would allow Roma to have three midfielders when defending, matching Inter numerically in that area.
The decisions reflect a familiar part of the championship season: a coach trying to preserve attacking quality without allowing the midfield to become exposed against an opponent capable of building pressure through wide areas and central rotations.
Chivu prepares Inter changes after Udinese victory
Inter coach Cristian Chivu is considering several alterations from the side that beat Udinese. Lautaro Martinez, rested on Monday, is set to return in attack alongside Marcus Thuram, while injuries have forced further adjustments.
- John Stones has suffered a hamstring injury and is expected to be out for three weeks.
- Hakan Calhanoglu is also unavailable.
- Yann Bisseck will return in defence. His recall comes after he was included in Jürgen Klopp’s new Germany squad.
- Piotr Zielinski is expected to move into the deep-lying playmaker role, opening a place in midfield for Curtis Jones.
Goalkeeper decision remains open
The remaining uncertainty for Inter is on the right flank. Andy Diouf is showing signs of fatigue and Luis Henrique could come into the side instead.
Chivu is inclined to keep faith with Josep Martinez in goal, having publicly defended the Spaniard after his mistakes across the last two matches. However, if Martinez himself feels he lacks the necessary calm, Ivan Provedel could make his debut. The Olimpico would carry a particular significance for the former Lazio goalkeeper.
For Roma, the return of Hermoso gives the defensive unit a measure of stability. For Inter, the evening may depend on whether Chivu’s reshaped midfield and renewed forward line can carry the confidence of the Udinese result into a more demanding championship stage.
