Italy Duo Ready To Return To Inter Milan XI For Trip To Cremonese

Inter are set to welcome back Alessandro Bastoni and Pio Esposito to the starting line-up for Sunday’s Serie A clash away to Cremonese.

The selections reflect Cristian Chivu’s plan to refresh key areas while keeping continuity.

Lautaro was largely rested in Dortmund.

Meanwhile the 2005-born forward came on at the start of the second half.

Sunday’s match will mark the 20th time this season that the pair have shared the pitch, taking them beyond 800 minutes together.

Their understanding has already delivered important returns.

Cremonese Vs Inter – Chivu Ready To Trust Pio Esposito And Bastoni

MILAN, ITALY – JANUARY 23: Francesco Pio Esposito of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates scoring his team’s third goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Pisa SC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on January 23, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Both scored in the recent 6-2 win over Pisa.

And, indeed, earlier in the campaign they were both on target away to Cagliari.

Esposito has also shown a strong connection with his captain, providing key assists.

Including one against Udinese that stood out for its timing and precision.

Despite several absentees, Carlos Augusto joins Dumfries, Calhanoglu and Barella on the sidelines, the rest of the team should largely mirror the side seen in Europe.

Bastoni returns in defence alongside Bisseck and Akanji.

Luis Henrique and Dimarco are expected to operate on the flanks.

Indeed, with Sucic, Zielinski and Mkhitaryan forming the midfield trio.

Inter head to Cremona determined to maintain their advantage over chasing rivals.