Hakan Calhanoglu to Miss Roma Clash with Thigh Injury
Calhanoglu Out for Serie A Showdown Against Roma
Inter Milan midfielder Hakan Calhanoglu will not feature in Saturday's key Serie A match against Roma after sustaining a right thigh strain. The 32-year-old missed the recent 5-3 victory over Udinese, leaving Cristian Chivu without one of his main playmakers as two unbeaten teams face off at the Stadio Olimpico.
Thigh Strain Sidelines Key Midfielder
Calhanoglu's right thigh injury forced him out of Monday's high-scoring game versus Udinese. Prior to this, he scored in Inter's first two league matches against Monza and Cagliari, and appeared in Champions League games against Napoli and Real Madrid. His absence represents a setback for Inter's creativity, especially since both clubs enter the fixture undefeated after four rounds.
Medical Confirmation from Inter
The club provided an official update following scans conducted at the Istituto Clinico Humanitas in Rozzano. Their statement read: "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." Italian media reports suggest this injury rules him out of the crucial away match in Rome.
Renewed Rivalry at the Top
This game marks a rare occasion when two teams with perfect records meet so deep into the Serie A season — the first since October 2014. Gian Piero Gasperini's side leads on goal difference, having scored 12 goals and conceded only one across four matches. Yet Inter holds a psychological advantage, winning their last five league visits to the Olimpico by a combined 11-2 scoreline.
Upcoming International Break
The clash serves as a major test before Serie A pauses for the international window. Roma aims to secure five straight wins to start the season for just the third time in their history. Meanwhile, Inter hopes to reinforce their recent dominance in Rome. Calhanoglu and the Turkish national team will also watch developments closely ahead of important Nations League fixtures against France, Italy, and Belgium.
- Match: Roma vs Inter
- Date: 19 September 2026
- Kickoff Time: 19:00
- League: Serie A
