Get ready for a blockbuster weekend in Serie A as newly-crowned champions Inter Milan travel to the Stadio Olimpico to face Lazio on Saturday. This fixture carries extra weight, as these two sides will lock horns again just four days later in the Coppa Italia final on Wednesday.
Inter are riding high after securing their 21st Scudetto last week, and Cristian Chivu's men will be eager to maintain their momentum before the domestic cup showdown. However, Lazio boss Maurizio Sarri has other plans and is expected to shake things up significantly, with at least five changes anticipated from the side that beat Cremonese.
Lazio face some defensive headaches, with goalkeeper Ivan Provedel and Alessio Furlanetto ruled out for the remainder of the season. A major late concern surrounds captain Mattia Zaccagni, who is a serious doubt after picking up a knock in training. Veteran winger Pedro is the likely replacement if Zaccagni fails to recover in time.
On the brighter side for Lazio, Mario Gila has recovered from injury and is expected to reclaim his spot in the starting eleven. Matteo Cancellieri is also available again following suspension, while midfielder Nicolo Rovella is set for his first start since collarbone surgery. In attack, Daniel Maldini is currently favored over Tijjani Noslin to lead the line as the Biancocelesti aim to build some form.
For the Nerazzurri, the trip to Rome comes with a few key absences as Chivu balances his squad ahead of the cup final. Hakan Calhanoglu remains sidelined with a soleus injury and is expected to miss the rematch with Lazio in the Coppa Italia as well. Youngster Francesco Pio Esposito is also out, struggling with persistent back pain.
However, Inter are boosted by the return of Luis Henrique, who has fully recovered from his recent ailment and is available for selection. With the league title already in the bag, Chivu is widely expected to rotate his squad, potentially handing a start to Carlos Augusto. This clash promises plenty of drama as both teams eye the cup final—and the bragging rights that come with it.