Inter have started their Serie A title defence with a statement, beating Monza 4-1 at San Siro to sit second in the early standings on three points. The result carried more weight than the scoreline alone suggests. Pio Esposito was outstanding alongside Lautaro Martinez, while Andy Diouf delivered two assists from right wing-back and impressed enough for coach Cristian Chivu to talk up his long-term potential in the role vacated by Denzel Dumfries. The win offered early evidence that Chivu has solutions within his squad, even without a fully fit Thuram, who remains unavailable after a difficult World Cup.

The transfer window has cast a shadow over the build-up to the new season. Speculation linking Lautaro Martinez with Barcelona dominated the days before the opener, but president Giuseppe Marotta was unequivocal, saying the subject should not even be raised. Chivu, visibly frustrated by repeated questions on the matter, called the transfer market "bastardo" while insisting the club would keep its captain. With the window closing, Inter are now focused on outgoings. Midfielder Asllani and winger Luis Henrique are both available for permanent transfers, with a deal to send Henrique to Roma having collapsed. Young midfielder Massolin will leave on loan.

The summer business is otherwise complete. Curtis Jones arrived from Liverpool for 30 million euros plus bonuses, joining John Stones and Djed Spence as the third English signing of the window. Chivu's squad heads to Cagliari on August 30 carrying confidence from the opening win, though the manager has made clear there is still room to sharpen.