Pio Esposito could start against Como as the ballottaggio with Bonny remains open until the final training session, when Chivu will decide.
The decision comes after Esposito ended his 50-day goal drought during the Champions League victory over Feyenoord, according to Sportmediaset.
The 21-year-old forward’s selection is not yet final. Sportmediaset reported the formation against Como is still being decided. Tuesday’s session was the team’s first full training, with a final practice and selection set for Wednesday. While Esposito is favored to start, his position is not guaranteed, with the ballottaggio continuing until the final team sheet is announced.
Esposito's recent performance in Rotterdam improved his prospects. After a period of diminished form, he scored a goal and delivered an energetic display against Feyenoord. La Gazzetta dello Sport noted that a goal which was initially ruled offside for a marginal off-the-shoulder infraction would have been a brace, showcasing his sharpness and improved physical condition.
This breakout performance ended a long scoring drought. Fantacalcio reported Esposito had not found the net since October 5, a goal against Udinese. The 50-day drought saw him play six matches without scoring or providing a bonus point in Serie A or the Champions League. His goal against Feyenoord showed he had overcome the slump, as Fantacalcio noted.
After recovering from a fever, Esposito was available for more but was kept short, a decision that appears to have paid off.
“For attackers, goals are like oxygen,” Esposito told La Gazzetta dello Sport. “But I try to put myself at the team’s disposal first. I hope my work can be useful to Inter now that I am at 100%.”
The upcoming match against Como presents a specific challenge for Esposito. La Gazzetta dello Sport pointed out that he has never scored against Como, even during his time with Spezia in Serie B. The match offers an opportunity to prove his progress and solidify his place in the starting XI against a team he has not yet conquered.
Tactically, Inter’s lineup is taking shape. Sportmediaset reported that full-backs are a key area of debate. On the right, Tim Spence appears set to start, with Kieran Jones and John Stones available from the bench.
On the left, the battle between Carlos Augusto and Federico Dimarco is described as “on a thread of balance,” with a slight edge to the Brazilian due to his positioning on the flank when Alessandro Bastoni drops into defense. In midfield, Piotr Zieliinski is favored over Henrikh Mkhitaryan on the left side, partnering with Nicolò Barella and Hakan Calhanoglu.
Why was Esposito chosen over Thuram?
How long has Esposito been without a goal?
The forward was without a goal for 50 days, with his last goal coming in a 5-3 win over Udinese on October 5, according to Fantacalcio.
What is the current status of Inter’s defensive lineup?
Worth a look
