Inter approach their first Coppa Italia game of the season knowing that Nicolò Barella is likely to be out after picking up an injury against Lazio as he was on the treatment table alongside Francesco Acerbi.

Which games Barella could miss after a Lazio injury

The midfielder left the pitch after 74 minutes of his side’s 6-0 win over the Biancocelesti last Sunday. While the Nerazzurri were relieved to learn that neither he nor Federico Dimarco had any serious problems, Calciomercato.com understands that the 27-year-old could need around ten days to return to full fitness.

In that case, the Italy international would not only miss Thursday’s Coppa Italia game against Udinese, but also the subsequent Serie A home game against Como, scheduled for next Monday.

Davide Frattesi, who played his last league game at the end of October, would be the main candidate to replace Barella if he misses the coming games.

Inter do not expect Acerbi to return before the New Year

Inter are also concerned about Francesco Acerbi’s health, with the defender still recovering from an injury he sustained in the opening minutes of his side’s away game in Verona almost a month ago.

As La Gazzetta dello Sport reports, the 36-year-old is unlikely to return until the Supercoppa Italiana, which sees the Nerazzurri face Atalanta in Saudi Arabia on January 2nd.

Coach Simone Inzaghi is therefore considering whether he should start Tomas Palacios in the black and blue jersey for the first time against the Bianconeri.

Concerned about his repeated physical problems this season, Inter are also considering terminating Acerbi’s contract next June to make room for younger reinforcements, opting to keep Stefan De Vrij at the San Siro.