Inter began their Serie A title defence in emphatic fashion, beating Monza 4-1 at San Siro as Pio Esposito produced a moment of magic and the champions immediately set the pace.
Hakan Calhanoglu opened the scoring after only six minutes with a powerful strike, but Monza responded through Varela. Inter regained control after the break, with Piotr Zielinski, Esposito and Yann Bisseck completing the rout.
The victory gave Inter a perfect start in front of their home supporters, although manager Chivu admitted there was some early ring rust.
“There was a bit of rust at the beginning,” he said.
Esposito’s performance was the main talking point, with the Italian forward’s clever back-heel and his goal helping Inter underline their attacking quality. The result also prompted club president Marotta to offer firm reassurance over captain Lautaro Martinez’s future.
“Lauutaro will not leave here,” Marotta said, insisting there were “absolutely no conditions for his sale”.
Napoli win late as Genoa protest
Napoli also made a winning start, but their 2-0 victory at Genoa was overshadowed by furious protests from the home side over the opening goal.
Genoa claimed Kevin De Bruyne had pushed an opponent before Napoli took the lead. The hosts’ anger continued after the final whistle, with sporting director Lopez questioning the decision.
“We’re perplexed by the decision, all of Italy saw it,” he said.
Napoli coach Max Allegri changed the game with his substitutions after a difficult opening period. De Bruyne came off the bench and had an immediate influence, unlocking Genoa’s defence and setting up Vergara, who doubled the visitors’ advantage late on.
The Belgian’s impact and Vergara’s finish settled the match at Marassi, while Lang was also praised for his contribution.
Spalletti backs Yildiz and new arrivals
Luciano Spalletti said Juventus would not be tempted to sell Kenan Yildiz, even for a significant offer, before their match against Frosinone at 17:30.
“Not even 100 million is enough for Yildiz,” Spalletti said. “They can offer whatever they want, he’s the future of Juve.”
Kolo Muani and Vicario are expected to start, with Spalletti confirming that Kolo Muani will be an immediate starter and Vicario will also begin the game.
“100 million for Yildiz? We are his top club. Kolo Muani an immediate starter, like Vicario. We’ve had a good window, we’ve improved, but hoping for more reinforcements,” he said.
Juventus are still considering further additions, with an Ivorian central midfielder potentially the next arrival. Goalkeeper Perin, who is wanted by Palermo, is expected to be on the bench, while the Polish goalkeeper Grabara is being lined up as his replacement.
Spalletti also gave his approval to OK-enan, Kolo and Kessie.
Amorim targets Scudetto with Milan
Milan begin against Torino at 19:45, with coach Ruben Amorim making clear that the club’s ambition is to challenge for the title.
“Milan want the Scudetto,” Amorim said. “We’re aiming to win. Leao won’t be there, he’s not important now.”
Torino manager Abate believes his side must show greater intensity against a Milan team led by the ambitious Portuguese coach.
“I want a horrible squad that transmits passion,” Abate said, calling for a “tremendous” Torino.
Torino have reached an agreement with Esposito and are still seeking an agreement with Cagliari. Amorim, meanwhile, acknowledged the pressure surrounding Milan’s campaign.
“Mission Scudetto, I feel the pressure. Leao? He’s not important now,” he said.
Elsewhere, Como’s expensive squad endured a frustrating opening day in Udine. The match finished 1-1, with Douvikas rescuing Como after a tense encounter against Udinese.
