Inter's Champions League campaign has started with a setback, and the manner of the defeat at Real Madrid is generating real scrutiny around Cristian Chivu's squad. A 2-1 loss at the Bernabeu on September 8 was shaped by individual errors rather than a lack of quality, with goalkeeper Josep Martinez at the centre of the post-match discussion after a costly mistake gifted Real Madrid their second goal. The performance itself showed enough promise to suggest Inter can compete at this level, but self-inflicted damage is a pattern Chivu will need to address quickly.

The goalkeeper situation is now a live issue. Reports linking Ivan Provedel to an immediate promotion in the pecking order have circulated since the defeat, and with Martinez's confidence likely affected, Chivu faces a decision before Monday's Serie A fixture against Udinese at San Siro on September 14. John Stones, who impressed as a substitute at the Bernabeu, is pushing for a starting place in defence, adding another selection question for the manager.

Despite the European disappointment, Inter sit second in Serie A with nine points from three games, level with leaders Roma and third-placed Lazio. The domestic platform remains strong, but the visit of Udinese carries its own weight. Twelve months ago, a home defeat to the same opponents threatened to derail Chivu's project entirely. With a trip to Roma to follow, how Inter respond this week will say a great deal about their mentality this season.