Inter's Champions League campaign began with a painful lesson at the Bernabeu, where a 2-1 defeat to Real Madrid exposed the cost of individual errors at the highest level. Cristian Chivu's side were competitive and created plenty, but mistakes from goalkeeper Josep Martinez, plus earlier errors from Bisseck and Jones, handed the hosts a two-goal advantage that Carlos Augusto's second-half strike could not overturn. The performance suggested Inter have the quality to compete in Europe, yet self-inflicted damage remains a serious concern.

The fallout has been immediate. Martinez's blunder has triggered speculation about his place in the starting lineup, with Ivan Provedel mentioned as a possible replacement as early as the next league fixture. Federico Dimarco also missed the trip to Madrid with a knee problem, adding to Chivu's selection headaches, while Djed Spence continues his recovery and has yet to make his debut for the club.

Despite the European setback, Inter's domestic form holds firm. The club sit second in Serie A with nine points from three games, level with leaders Roma, after three consecutive wins including a comeback victory over Napoli. That context matters. Chivu's squad returns to San Siro on Monday to face Udinese in Matchday 4, a game that offers a chance to restore confidence before the trip to Roma the following weekend.