As the highly anticipated match between Inter and Torino approaches, ex-AC Milan star Hakan Calhanoglu eagerly looks forward to facing one of his favorite opponents. Meanwhile, an Inter legend has come to the defense of coach Simone Inzaghi regarding squad rotation, questioning why such tactics are often criticized when employed by other teams like Juventus. With high stakes, players and coaches are ready for the challenge ahead.
Ex AC Milan Star Licking His Lips for Inter vs. Torino Match
Inter will play their final Serie A match tomorrow evening before the international break.
The Nerazzurri face Torino at the San Siro.
Games against the Granata are rarely straightforward.
In recent years, Torino has adopted a physical and organized playing style focusing on tight man-marking across the field.
This approach has enabled the Granata to successfully interrupt the flow of even the strongest teams in Serie A.
This summer, Torino switched coaches, with Paolo Vanoli taking over from Ivan Juric.
However, the playing style of the Piedmontese side has largely remained unchanged.
Inter has felt the pressure in their matches against Torino.
However, Inter has defeated Torino both at home and away in the past few seasons.
Hakan Calhanoglu Eagerly Anticipating Another Torino Match
One factor that may have given Inter an edge against Torino is individual quality.
The second matchup between the two teams last season was a testament to that.
Inter midfielder Calhanoglu netted two goals in that match, leading to a 2-0 victory.
The Turkish international delivered a fantastic strike during open play. Then, it showcased why he is one of Europe’s most clinical penalty-takers by converting a spot kick.
Additionally, Calhanoglu also found the net in the reverse fixture.
While the 30-year-old may not be the most prolific scorer in Inter’s squad, he is reliable from the penalty spot.
However, Calhanoglu has developed a strong habit of scoring against Torino.
The Turk had previously netted twice against Torino while playing for Inter’s city rivals, AC Milan.
Calhanoglu will look forward to another matchup against one of his favorite opponents tomorrow.
Torino will undoubtedly make it a tough contest, but there’s no doubt that Calhanoglu will be ready for the challenge.
Inter Legend Supports Coach on Squad Rotation: ‘Juventus?’
As reported by FCInterNews, Bergomi highlighted the differing criticisms the two coaches faced during a conversation with Italian broadcaster Sky Sport Italia.
Inter coach Simone Inzaghi has made several adjustments to his team this season to rotate the squad.
The Nerazzurri coach has worked to avoid overusing vital players.
Naturally, Inzaghi wants to prevent players in his squad from experiencing fatigue and exhaustion from excessive play.
Naturally, Inzaghi aims to keep his players from fatigue and exhaustion due to too much playing time.
The Nerazzurri have Serie A and the expanded Champions League to compete in, along with domestic cups. Inzaghi must also consider the Club World Cup next summer.
Bergom Defends Inzaghi: “No One Criticizes Motta For Squad Rotation”
Another coach in Serie A finds himself in a similar situation as Inzaghi.
Like the Inter coach, Juventus’s manager understands that the season will be exceptionally long and challenging with domestic obligations, the Champions League, and the Club World Cup on the horizon.
As a result, it hasn’t been surprising to see Motta adopt a rotation policy similar to Inzaghi’s.
But in Bergomi’s view, “Inzaghi’s squad rotation always sparks debate.”
“But does Thiago Motta always put out the same lineup?” the former Inter captain posed. “No.”
“Then, for years, everyone talked about Inzaghi’s substitutions,” Bergomi noted.
The Inter coach is well-known for substituting players shortly after they receive yellow cards to avoid the risk of a second booking.
This has drawn significant criticism for Inzaghi, including from Inter fans.
“But then everyone started imitating him, taking off players on yellows,” Begomi noted.
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