Former Inter director Marco Branca believes the Nerazzurri miss Ivan Perisic more than Romelu Lukaku.
The Nerazzurri sealed a 2-0 win against Viktoria Plzen in the Champions League on Tuesday and are now preparing to face Udinese in the final Serie A game before the international break.
They will be without Romelu Lukaku who is not expected to return before October following a muscle injury.
However, Branca believes the Nerazzurri miss Perisic more than the Belgium international.
“I think they miss Perisic more. He was outstanding last season, now they still need to adapt,” he told Tuttosport.
“He wanted to play in the Premier League before the end of his career. There was nothing Inter could to persuade him to stay. I understand him, there was no reason why he should not get personal satisfaction.”
The Croat joined Tottenham on a free agent at the end of his contract in June. He was one of Inter’s best players last season thanks to his 10 goals and nine assists in 49 games across all competitions.
Inter signed Robin Gosens from Atalanta in January, but the Germany international is still not up to his previous standards, mostly due to physical issues.
“He wasn’t well when he arrived, and I think he has time to return to his level. To me, he is an excellent player,” said Branca, who has faith in Inter boss Inzaghi.
“It’s normal for every coach to be questioned after a few draws. I like the way the team plays. Inter have a tough Champions League group, but they only need one game to unlock. If they find the key to the problem, they can play on par with everyone.”
Branca believes Inter should not regret not signing Paulo Dybala, who signed for Roma on a free transfer.
“He can’t be a regret, he is not there, so they must think about who is in the team.”
Inter miss Pintus the most.
I agree. Perisic was Inter’s best player last season. A big loss indeed.