Serie A Fourth Round Preview: Inter Seeks Revival Against Newly Promoted Sassuolo

Inter Milan comes into the fourth round of Serie A with renewed confidence after opening their Champions League 2025/26 campaign with a 2-0 away victory against Ajax. Despite the European success, the Nerazzurri have struggled early domestically, collecting only three points from three matches and currently sitting behind Napoli, Juventus, and Milan in the standings. The upcoming home clash against Sassuolo presents an important opportunity to start climbing the table, as coach Cristian Chivu seeks to stabilize the team's form after mixed domestic results.

Inter’s Two-Week Window to Rebound

Coach Chivu has mapped out the next two weeks as crucial for Inter’s ascent. With four matches scheduled before the next international break—including games against Sassuolo, Cagliari, Slavia Prague, and Cremonese—there is optimism within the camp to regain momentum. Chivu commented on the strategy: "In two weeks the Inter plans to find continuity to fix its Serie A standings and add another step towards reaching the Champions League knockout phase." The recent victory in Amsterdam has revitalized morale, and with a deep squad featuring new recruits like Bonny, Diouf, and Luis Henrique, the technical staff is ready to rotate players and maximize the team's potential. For instance, goalkeeper Josep Martinez could see his first Serie A start against Sassuolo, while Sucic may get more playing time to invigorate the midfield.

Sassuolo Returns to the Top Flight

Sassuolo has made a swift return to Serie A after spending a season in Serie B, currently sitting on three points as well from early matches. They will be looking to capitalize on their momentum and challenge Inter's inconsistent form. Sassuolo has some injury concerns, with Paz and Skjellerup doubtful for the clash, but no suspensions to worry about. The encounter at San Siro will test how well the returning side can compete against a top-tier rival looking for a breakthrough.

Key Matchups and Injury Updates Across Serie A

The fourth round also features several intriguing fixtures, including Bologna vs Genoa, Verona vs Juventus, and Udinese vs Milan. Bologna, eager to recover from only one win so far, will face an aggressive Genoa side under Patrick Vieira, who recently earned a hard-fought draw against Como. Juventus, coming off a thrilling 4-3 victory against Inter in the Derby d'Italia and a high-scoring 4-4 draw in the Champions League against Borussia Dortmund, will confront a Verona side desperate for points. Coach Igor Tudor praised his goalkeeper Di Gregorio, stating, "Di Gregorio sarà il primo portiere tutto l’anno, ha sempre fatto grandi partite... Sui sette gol lui ha responsabilità soltanto un po’ su uno."

Udinese, sitting third in Serie A with seven points after an impressive win at San Siro, face current sixth-placed Milan, who are aiming for their third consecutive league win. Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri stressed focus: "Quando inizia la partita, bisogna accendere l’interruttore altrimenti ci facciamo del male, soprattutto contro una squadra come l’Udinese."

In terms of injuries for this round, several teams suffer notable absences. Atalanta faces multiple injuries including Kolasinac and Bakker, Bologna is without Casale and Immobile, Milan's Leao and Maignan remain sidelined, while Juventus misses Milik and Miretti. Inter reports no injuries or suspensions, giving Chivu flexibility in squad selection. Several squads, including Napoli, Roma, Sassuolo, and Verona, have players listed as doubtful or under evaluation.

As the Serie A season unfolds, this weekend's matches will be vital in setting the tone for the months ahead. Inter’s ability to secure a win against Sassuolo could be the catalyst for a sustained push toward the league's top positions, while teams like Juventus, Milan, and Udinese will look to consolidate their early performances amid injury challenges. Fans can follow the matches across multiple broadcasters, with high anticipation for an exciting round of Italian top-flight football.