Story byInter Milan & Italy Starlet Could Be Given Surprise Start In Trip To AtalantaSempreInter. comSun, December 28, 2025 at 11:20 AM UTC·1 min readInter Milan could hand Francesco Pio Esposito a surprise start against Atalanta, with the Italy striker pushing to partner Lautaro Martinez in Bergamo. While Thuram remains the favourite in the probable line-up, the presence of Esposito among the main options represents the most intriguing selection possibility on the eve of the match. AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementAt the back, Cristian Chivu still has a decision to make. Yann Bisseck and Stefan de Vrij are battling for a starting role, with Manuel Akanji potentially shifting position depending on the final choice. Atalanta Vs Inter – Selection Debate Over Mkhitaryan & Pio EspositoBARI, ITALY – AUGUST 16: Francesco Pio Esposito of Inter during Pre-Season Friendly match between FC Internazionale and Olympiacos FC at Stadio San Nicola on August 16, 2025 in Bari, Italy. (Photo by Maurizio Lagana/)Midfield selection also remains open. Hakan Calhanoglu is set to return in the regista role, while the final central slot is being contested by Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Piotr Zielinski. AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementChivu has also added several youngsters to the travelling group, with Taho, Cinquegrano, Spinaccé and Cocchi included as Inter prepare for the final fixture of 2025. Whether Esposito gets the nod from the start or not, his presence underlines the coach’s willingness to consider fresh solutions in a demanding away test.