Inter's title credentials took a knock at the Olimpico on Saturday, not because of the 2-2 draw with Roma, but because of how it happened. For the fourth consecutive match, Cristian Chivu's side found themselves two goals down before mounting a comeback, a pattern that is becoming impossible to ignore. Lautaro Martinez rescued a point with a second-half double, keeping Inter level on 13 points with Roma and Lazio at the top of Serie A, but the defensive fragility in the opening exchanges of matches remains a serious concern.

The squad situation adds to the pressure. Hakan Calhanoglu missed the Roma game through injury, with Piotr Zielinski filling in at the base of midfield. John Stones, signed in the summer, lasted just one start before picking up a muscle problem against Udinese. Spence has yet to debut, while Curtis Jones has shown flashes of quality alongside some inconsistency. The new arrivals have not yet delivered the reinforcement Chivu needed.

There was also grief around the club on matchday. Inter legend Sandro Mazzola passed away at 83, and both Roma and Inter wore black armbands in his honour. Mazzola spent his entire playing career at the club, scoring 162 goals in 566 appearances and winning four league titles and two European Cups.

Inter host Parma on October 10, a fixture that should offer breathing space, but the underlying issues need addressing before bigger tests arrive.