Inter Milan will be without left-back Federico Dimarco for their Champions League group stage debut against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu on Wednesday. The Italian defender, who enjoyed an outstanding 2024-25 domestic season, has been ruled out as a precautionary measure despite participating in partial training with the squad.
According to Sky Sport Italia, Inter's medical and technical staff made the decision to keep Dimarco in Milan rather than risk aggravating his injury during travel to Spain. Though his physical condition is improving, the club prioritized his full recovery ahead of the demanding European campaign. The 26-year-old is expected to return for Inter's next Serie A fixture, where he will have another week to regain match fitness.
A Season of Historic Proportions
Dimarco's absence represents a significant tactical loss for coach Cristian Chivu. The full-back was instrumental in Inter's title triumph last season, earning recognition as the best player in Serie A for 2024-25. Beyond his defensive responsibilities, he emerged as one of the Nerazzurri's primary offensive weapons, contributing 7 goals and 18 assists—a single-season record for assists in Serie A history. His absence against Real Madrid, one of Europe's elite sides, comes at an awkward moment as Inter begin their European quest without one of their most influential playmakers.
Losing a player of Dimarco's caliber forces Inter to adapt their attacking approach from the left flank. The timing is particularly challenging given that Real Madrid, now coached by former Inter manager José Mourinho, represent formidable opposition. This fixture marks a crucial juncture in Inter's Champions League ambitions, making Dimarco's recovery timeline a key storyline for the weeks ahead.
