Inter consider Dumfries alternatives for big derby match

Originally posted on Football Italia | By Susy Campanale | Last updated Nov 18, 2025 10:47 AM ET

If Denzel Dumfries does not recover in time from an injury on international duty, Inter have three alternatives to start the Derby della Madonnina against Milan.

It kicks off on Sunday at 19.45 GMT at the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza in San Siro.

Dumfries remains a major doubt for the Nerazzurri after returning early from international duty with the Netherlands.

He is suffering from an ankle problem and Sky Sport Italia report that the club medical staff are worried playing too early could make it worse.

Rather than risk doing more damage in the long run, it is rumoured Inter would prefer to rest Dumfries and play someone else on the right side of their five-man midfield.

Inter turn to other candidates

MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 21: Carlos Augusto celebrates his side’s second goal, on own goal scored by Tarik Muharemovic (not pictured) during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and US Sassuolo Calcio at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on September 21, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

The hot favourite to step in is Carlos Augusto, who has been more accustomed to playing on the left, or as a central defender in the back three.

His versatility is crucial and makes him the most likely player to take over.

CAGLIARI, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 27: Luis Henrique Tomaz de Lima warms up ahead before the Serie A match between Cagliari Calcio and FC Internazionale at Stadio Sant’Elia on September 27, 2025 in Cagliari, Italy. (Photo by Enrico Locci/Getty Images)

Other contenders are Matteo Darmian, who himself has just recovered from a muscular injury, and disappointing summer signing Luis Henrique.

The Brazilian has struggled since making the move from Olympique Marseille and there are already suggestions he could be loaned back to a Ligue 1 side in January.

This article first appeared on Football Italia and was syndicated with permission.

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