Inter Milan Thrives Without Lautaro Martinez Ahead of Sassuolo Match

CHARLOTTE, North Carolina – June 30: Lautaro Martinez #10 of FC Internazionale Milano reacts during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 round of 16 match against Fluminense FC at Bank of America Stadium. Despite his absence, Inter Milan has shown a remarkable track record, remaining undefeated without their captain since 2019.

This strong performance comes after Martinez missed the recent win over Ajax due to a slight fitness concern. He played only 45 minutes against Juventus before sitting out the Ajax match entirely. In his absence, young forward Francesco Pio Esposito filled in.

Since Martinez last lost, Inter has played 27 matches without him, achieving 21 wins and six draws. The team last fell short without their captain in March 2019 against Lazio, then coached by Simone Inzaghi. Martinez has missed these matches due to injuries and suspensions but has yet to see his team lose.

Currently, Martinez is still training separately from the squad, adding uncertainty to his availability for the upcoming game against Sassuolo. Coach Cristian Chivu must decide whether to risk the star player or field Esposito again.

In further developments, Chivu underscored the importance of midfielder Hakan Calhanoglu this week before the Sassuolo match, emphasizing his crucial role in the team’s strategy. Calhanoglu has two goals and two assists in the season’s first three matches, despite having endured a rocky summer relationship with the squad.

As Inter prepares to face Sassuolo tonight at San Siro, kick-off is set for 20:45 local time. Eyes will be on Chivu’s lineup decisions as they look to continue their undefeated streak without their captain.