Inter head into the international break in fine form, sitting joint-top of Serie A alongside Roma with 12 points from four games, yet the mood around the club is not without its complications. The 5-3 win over Udinese on Monday extended their perfect start, but the manner of the victory told a familiar story: Inter went two goals down inside 15 minutes before turning the game on its head, repeating a pattern seen against Napoli the week before. The resilience is real, but so is the vulnerability in the opening stages of matches.

The bigger concern now is the fitness of Hakan Calhanoglu. The midfielder missed the Udinese game entirely and has since been diagnosed with a muscular strain in his right adductor, ruling him out of Saturday's top-of-the-table clash at the Stadio Olimpico. His absence forces coach Cristian Chivu to reorganise a midfield that has relied heavily on the Turkish international as its engine. John Stones also picked up a problem during the Udinese win, adding further defensive uncertainty.

Goalkeeper Josep Martinez is under growing scrutiny after errors in back-to-back games against Real Madrid and Udinese, with reports suggesting Chivu may consider a change between the posts. Off the pitch, former sporting director Piero Ausilio is closing in on a move to Tottenham. Saturday's visit to Roma, who share top spot, will offer the clearest measure yet of where this Inter side truly stands.