Inter began their defence of the Serie A title with a commanding 4-1 victory over promoted Monza at San Siro, a result that sets an early tone for a squad widely considered the team to beat again this season. Cristian Chivu's side arrived at the opener with genuine momentum, having won their final pre-season friendly 1-0 against Real Betis, and the performance against Monza underlined the depth and ambition running through this group.

The biggest story surrounding the club right now is the future of captain Lautaro Martinez. Barcelona have been strongly linked with a move worth over €100 million, and the speculation intensified in the days before kick-off. Chivu, visibly frustrated by the questions at his pre-match press conference, acknowledged that "the transfer market is always a bastard" when pressed on whether the Argentine would stay. President Giuseppe Marotta was more direct on matchday, telling DAZN the subject should not even be discussed. Lautaro started against Monza, which offered some reassurance to supporters.

Off the pitch, Inter completed the signing of Curtis Jones from Liverpool for €30 million plus €5 million in bonuses, making the England midfielder their third English arrival of the summer after John Stones and Djed Spence. Jones had been Chivu's primary midfield target since January. His arrival, combined with the earlier departure of Davide Frattesi to Lazio, leaves the squad with a crowded engine room, and Filip Stankovic's future at the club is now uncertain with the transfer window still open.