Inter’s Lautaro Martinez to be sidelined for Como match following calf injury setback

“Medical assessments conducted today (Friday) have revealed a mild muscle strain in his left calf,” Inter confirmed in a statement, noting that the striker’s “condition will be evaluated over the next few days”.

Reports from Italian media indicate that the 28-year-old could make a comeback for next week’s home fixture against Cagliari.

Inter currently holds a seven-point lead over the reinvigorated reigning champions Napoli, with just seven fixtures left in the Serie A season.

Martinez, who has netted 16 goals this season, was sidelined for six weeks between February and March due to muscle injuries.

Upon his return last weekend, the Argentinian found the back of the net twice during a 5-2 victory against Roma.

During his absence, Inter faced a challenging March, recording two losses and a draw across three matches, which has provided a glimmer of hope to rival teams.

Now, they will have to navigate a challenging away match against fourth-placed Como, aiming to avoid giving any additional motivation to Napoli and third-placed AC Milan, who trail by nine points.

In the absence of Martinez, Inter manager Cristian Chivu is likely to pair Marcus Thuram with Pio Esposito in the forward line.