Inter Milan Head Coach Ready To Turn To Reliable Stars In Key Napoli Grudge Match | OneFootball

Inter vs Napoli is shaping up as a key test for Cristian Chivu, with Bastoni, Thuram and Barella all expected to return to the starting XI at San Siro.

There is cautious optimism coming out of Appiano Gentile ahead of Sunday’s showdown.

Matteo Darmian and Diouf have both confirmed their progress in recent days, taking part in partial group training and pushing for a place in the matchday squad.

For Darmian, it would mark a significant step forward.

The defender has not featured since the end of September due to a persistent calf problem, but is now finally seeing light at the end of the tunnel.

Chivu Turns To Bastoni & Thuram For Inter Clash With Napoli

MADRID, SPAIN – NOVEMBER 26: Alessandro Bastoni of FC Internazionale Milano runs with the ball during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD5 match between Atletico de Madrid and FC Internazionale Milano at Estadio Metropolitano on November 26, 2025 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Not all the news is positive for Inter.

Davide Frattesi remains unavailable and will miss the match against Antonio Conte’s Napoli.

According to Corriere dello Sport, Chivu intends to field the strongest possible Inter side.

Indeed, for a fixture that carries clear weight in the title race.

The Nerazzurri coach is expected to reinstate several regular starters.

With Alessandro Bastoni, Marcus Thuram, Nicolò Barella and Piotr Zielinski all set to return from the outset.

Inter want a statement performance at home as they look to reassert themselves against a direct rival.

Probable Inter XI (3-5-2): Sommer; Bisseck, Akanji, Bastoni; Luis Henrique, Barella, Calhanoglu, Zielinski, Dimarco; Thuram, Lautaro.