Today, in Perth, the first classic of the season: Inter tests Bonny with Pio
According to Tuttomercatoweb.
Why this matters
This Milan derby marks the start of the 2024/25 season and serves as a crucial test for both teams. Inter, under the guidance of Cristian Chivu, seeks to consolidate its certainty after a solid last season, while Milan, led by Amorim, is in a phase of transformation. The performance of players like Ange-Yoan Bonny and Pio Esposito could be decisive for the dynamics of the Nerazzurro attack in the next Serie A.
Principais conclusões
- Now, in Perth, the first player of the era: Inter test Bonny with Pio.
- First AC Milan-Inter match of 2024/25 will be held in Perth.
- Today in Perth the first derby of the season. Inter, Bonny is here with Pio: a test for the championship.
Milan and Inter face each other today, in Perth, in what will be the first classic of the season between the Milan rivals. The match, scheduled for 1 pm (Italian time), appears as a major test in the middle of the pre-season: on the one hand, the so-called Rossoneri revolution; on the other, the Nerazzurri continuity that seeks to fine-tune mechanisms with a view to the start of the championship.
According to Corriere della Sera, Hakan Calhanoglu and Ange-Yoan Bonny are back in Cristian Chivu's starting lineup. Striker Bonny, who hasn't scored since February 2, should partner up front with Pio Esposito. The objective is to regain harmony between the two young attackers, considering that, on August 22, against Monza, they may have the responsibility of leading the attack in the Serie A debut. In this context, Lautaro Martínez and Marcus Thuram have a great chance of starting the match on the bench, managing minutes in this initial phase of preparation.
On the Rossoneri side, the new cycle promises profound changes. Milan's academy is going through a phase of discovery and experimentation under Amorim's leadership, with ideas being implemented and space for tactical and casting tests in the squad. The first classic is, therefore, a relevant thermometer to understand to what extent the new game matrix begins to take shape in the face of a rival with a consolidated identity.
Inter de Chivu enters the field to reinforce certainties. Last season left solid foundations and the focus is to consolidate them, introducing details of intensity and greater aggression in pressing. The return of Calhanoglu adds criteria in construction and set pieces, while the bet on Bonny and Pio Esposito offers the team competitive minutes for a duo called upon to respond with goals and presence in the box.
In addition to the symbolism of any Milan derby, the Australian context also brings a global stage to the rivalry. In terms of preparation, a test of this level allows both teams to calibrate rhythms, adjust connections and evaluate solutions just a few days before the official kickoff. Physical management and balance between established starters and emerging players will be themes to be followed closely, in a game that is worth more than a simple pre-season friendly.
With the tight schedule and the championship debut just around the corner, Perth offers the ideal scenario to measure the strength of Inter's continuity and the ambition of the Rossoneri's renewal — and, in particular, to see if Bonny and Pio Esposito can turn this opportunity into valid arguments for the eleven when the ball starts to count in earnest.
What happens next
With Real Madrid preparing an offer, Manchester City must intensify negotiations to guarantee Rodri's stay. The situation could evolve quickly, especially if the player shows interest in a new adventure in La Liga. Meanwhile, James Trafford's move to Leeds United could be completed soon, strengthening the club's Premier League position for the new season.
Frequently asked questions
Who is interested in Rodri?
Real Madrid is preparing a move for Manchester City player Rodri.
How old is Rodri?
Rodri is 30 years old.
What is the status of Rodri's contract with Manchester City?
Manchester City are confident of a contract extension for Rodri.
Who is James Trafford and where is he being transferred to?
23-year-old goalkeeper James Trafford is set to be signed by Leeds United for around £40 million from Manchester City.
What is the transfer status of Joshua Zirkzee?
25-year-old Dutch striker Joshua Zirkzee is in advanced negotiations to be loaned to Juventus on a season-long loan, with an option to buy set at £30m.