Hellas Verona faces new injury challenges ahead of their crucial Serie A match against Inter Milan, which kicks off at the Stadio Bentegodi on Sunday at 11:30 GMT. Coach Paolo Zanetti has emphasized the strength of Inter, labeling them as “among the top five teams in Europe,” while highlighting the need for his team to focus on their own performance amid a tough start to the season.
Verona is seeking their first victory of the Serie A campaign after also being eliminated from the Coppa Italia in the second round against Venezia. The team is missing key players such as Suat Serdar, who scored in their recent 3-1 defeat to Como but is ruled out for the upcoming match, along with Unai Nunez, Yellu Santiago, Daniel Oyegoke, and Tomas Suslov. Furthermore, Jean-Daniel Akpa Akpro and Grigoris Kastanos are not yet fully fit, adding to the team’s woes.
In his press conference, Zanetti expressed hope that Serdar’s injury is not serious, but confirmed his absence for the match against Inter. “We need a super performance, not just against Inter but to build the right mentality for the upcoming decisive games,” he stated. The coach acknowledged the daunting task ahead, noting, “Inter are practically playing a different league to us.”
The ongoing injuries have also forced adjustments in Verona’s defense. With Unai Nunez sidelined, Victor Nelsson has been repositioned to a more central role. Zanetti praised Nelsson’s efforts but stressed that the team needs to find more scoring opportunities and be more clinical, reflecting on their unfortunate start to the season.
One player drawing attention from fans is Gift Orban, whose outspoken nature regarding team dynamics has garnered mixed reactions. While some criticize his openness about supply issues from teammates, Zanetti appreciates Orban’s determination, urging him to harness that energy positively.
As Verona prepares for this tough challenge against Inter Milan, they are not only looking for a turnaround in results but also for a renewed spirit and unity that can push them through this difficult phase.