Italian Media Claim Another Exclusion For Inter Milan Veteran Would ‘Be Controversial’ As Defender Prepares For Lazio Clash | OneFootball

Cristian Chivu’s Inter are preparing to face Lazio at San Siro tonight, and while much of the lineup appears set, one key decision remains open – whether Francesco Acerbi will be reinstated at the centre of defence.

As reported by Corriere dello Sport, via FCInterNews, the veteran defender “is ready to reclaim his place in the middle after three consecutive games on the bench.”

He last featured in the defeat to Napoli on October 25.

Flanked by Manuel Akanji and Alessandro Bastoni, Acerbi could return to anchor the backline.

However, Chivu has yet to make a final call.

Inter Vs Lazio – Another Acerbi Exclusion Would Be ‘Controversial’

MILAN, ITALY – AUGUST 25: Francesco Acerbi of Internazionale looks on during the warm up prior to the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Torino FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on August 25, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

The paper notes that “another exclusion would be controversial.”

Therefore, a sign of how symbolic the decision has become given the 37-year-old’s leadership role in the squad.

In midfield, Hakan Calhanoglu is expected to resume his place in front of the defence.

Indeed, he will be supported by Nicolò Barella and Petar Sucic.

Meanwhile, Denzel Dumfries and Federico Dimarco will patrol the flanks.

Up front, Lautaro Martinez will once again lead the line, likely alongside Ange-Yoan Bonny.

After back-to-back narrow wins over Verona and Kairat, Inter are searching for both fluency and authority.

Indeed, Acerbi’s potential return could provide not just defensive stability, but also a signal of renewed confidence.