Hellas Verona 0-5 Inter Milan: Correa on target on first start of season as Nerazzurri thrash hosts

Inter Milan's head coach, Simone Inzaghi, has commended forward Joaquin Correa (30) for his outstanding performance in the team's 5-0 victory over Hellas Verona on Saturday, marking Correa's first start of the season.

In this match, Correa not only scored a goal but also provided two assists, stepping up in the absence of striker Lautaro Martinez. This impressive display helped Inter temporarily reclaim the top position in Serie A.

"Correa earned this opportunity through his dedication since June, and he demonstrated his capabilities," Inzaghi stated during the post-match press conference.

"I am pleased for him. Beyond being an exceptional player, he is a commendable individual who has persevered in his efforts despite facing some skepticism."

Last season, Correa was loaned to Olympique de Marseille for a year, and there were expectations that he would depart Inter permanently, as the French club held an option to purchase him.

Upon his return, he made three appearances in the last twelve league matches, coming off the bench against Monza, Udinese, and AS Roma, before being chosen to start alongside Marcus Thuram against Verona.

Correa initiated the scoring in the 17th minute with a deft chip following a precise assist from Thuram. He subsequently reciprocated by setting up the Frenchman to extend the lead in the 22nd minute, and later provided an assist to Yann Bisseck for the fifth goal before halftime.

"It was not challenging because my teammates supported me and were pleased when I found the net," Correa remarked.

"I intended to execute a backheel for Bisseck, but fortune played a part as well. We have many talented individuals here, and we must maintain this momentum."

Inter will next face RB Leipzig at home in the Champions League on Tuesday, although they may still be without Martinez, who fell ill upon returning from international duty.

"We need to monitor the progression of the virus," Inzaghi stated. "Last night he experienced chills, and this morning he had a fever nearing 38 degrees."

"I also had the same virus, which caused me to miss training on Monday and Tuesday. Regardless, he would have been resting on the bench today even if he had been present. We will see how it develops."

Martinez scored in both of Argentina's World Cup qualifying matches against Paraguay (2-1) and Peru (1-0).

SportsLigue