Inter's Hakan Calhanoglu Out of Roma Clash with Thigh Injury
Inter Milan midfielder Hakan Calhanoglu will not feature in Saturday's crucial Serie A encounter against Roma due to a right thigh strain. The 32-year-old was already sidelined during Inter's thrilling 5-3 victory over Udinese on Monday, depriving coach Cristian Chivu of an important playmaker as two unbeaten teams prepare to face off at the Stadio Olimpico.
Injury Details and Impact
Calhanoglu's injury occurred ahead of the match with Udinese, where he was unable to contribute after scoring in Inter's first two league games against Monza and Cagliari. He also appeared in Champions League fixtures against Napoli and Real Madrid. His absence removes a key creative presence for Inter, especially with both clubs holding perfect records through four rounds of Serie A.
Official Medical Update from Inter
Following detailed scans conducted at the Istituto Clinico Humanitas in Rozzano, Inter confirmed the nature of Calhanoglu's injury. In their statement, the club said: "Hakan Calhanoglu underwent medical examinations this morning at the Istituto Clinico Humanitas in Rozzano. The tests revealed an adductor muscle strain in his right thigh. His condition will be evaluated in the coming days." Reports throughout Italy indicate that this injury rules him out of the upcoming trip to face Roma.
The Serie A Showdown
This fixture represents a rare moment where two Serie A teams with flawless starts meet so late into the season, something not seen since October 2014. Gian Piero Gasperini's team currently leads the table on goal difference, having scored 12 goals and conceded only one across four matches. Still, Inter holds a psychological advantage by winning their last five league trips to the Stadio Olimpico, with a total score of 11-2.
Looking Ahead
Saturday's top-of-the-table contest is a significant challenge for both sides before the league pauses for international fixtures. Roma aims to secure five straight wins to start a Serie A season for only the third time in their history, while Inter wants to maintain their recent success on Roman soil. Attention will also turn to the Turkish national camp as Calhanoglu and others prepare for upcoming Nations League matches against France, Italy, and Belgium.
- Match: Roma vs Inter
- Date: 19 September 2026
- Time: 19:00
