Inter have started their Serie A title defence with a statement, beating Monza 4-1 at San Siro to sit top of the table after matchday one. The result carried some rough edges, with Cristian Chivu noting a lack of technical cleanliness in the first half, but the second period brought the fluency fans expect from the champions. Francesco Pio Esposito was the standout performer, playing the full ninety minutes alongside Lautaro Martinez and contributing directly to the scoreline with a composed finish. Andy Diouf, shifted to right wing-back to cover the departure of Dumfries to Real Madrid, provided two assists and drew strong praise from Chivu, who described the converted midfielder as a player with genuine courage and the ability to beat opponents one-on-one.

Off the pitch, the transfer window continues to generate noise. Curtis Jones arrived from Liverpool for 30 million euros plus five million in bonuses, completing a pursuit that stretched back to January. The England midfielder becomes the third British player added to Chivu's squad alongside John Stones and Djed Spence. President Giuseppe Marotta moved quickly to shut down speculation over Lautaro Martinez, telling DAZN that talk of a Barcelona move should not even begin, though Chivu was more measured, acknowledging that the market is unpredictable before reaffirming the club's intention to keep their captain. Marotta also confirmed Inter remain alert to late opportunities before the window closes.

With Thuram still building fitness after the World Cup and Mkhitaryan serving a suspension, the squad depth will be tested early. Inter travel to Cagliari on 30 August for their second league fixture.