Sport: Soccer Country: Italy Category: Scores & Results

Inter prepares for season opener against Monza with Lautaro and Esposito

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 15, 2026, 10:55 AM

Last updated Aug 15, 2026

Inter prepares for season opener against Monza with Lautaro and Esposito

Summary

Inter Milan is gearing up for their season opener against Monza on August 22, which coincides with Lautaro Martinez's birthday. Cristian Chivu, the team manager, is likely to start Lautaro alongside Pio Esposito, who is reported to be in better physical condition than Marcus Thuram. Lautaro returned to training early and focused on fitness during the summer, while Esposito, having missed the World Cup due to Italy’s failure to qualify, has had additional rest. Monza, promoted as playoff winners, presents an intriguing challenge for the defending champions.

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By the Numbers

•Inter's season opener against Monza is on August 22.
•Lautaro Martinez's birthday coincides with the match.
•Pio Esposito is expected to partner Lautaro in attack.
•Marcus Thuram's fitness is less favorable for the opener.
•Monza was promoted as playoff winners, adding competitive intrigue.

Latest Updates

10:55 AMYahoo Sports — Inter could partner Lautaro with Pio Esposito in season opener against Monza

What they're saying

"
Champions Inter are preparing to defend their title and star striker Lautaro Martinez is training hard at Appiano Gentile, as Cristian Chivu begins work on deciding who will partner him in attack in t...
— Yahoo Sports

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