Poland Star Disappointing On Full Debut In Inter Milan 3-1 Cagliari Serie A Clash | OneFootball

Nicola Zalewski had a disappointing first start for Inter Milan in yesterday’s 3-1 Serie A win against Cagliari.

This is the view in today’s print edition of Turin-based newspaper Tuttosport, via FCInterNews. They note that the 23-year-old was not playing on his preferred flank, and struggled defensively against Tommaso Augello.

Wingback Nicola Zalewski had the chance to make his first ever start for Inter Milan yesterday.

The Polish international joined the Nerazzurri during the January transfer window. He arrived on loan from Roma.

Zalewski had made some substitute appearances for Inter already.

The 23-year-old certainly had a memorable Inter debut. Less than 24 hours after signing, he came off the bench and assisted a stoppage time equalizer against AC Milan in the derby.

However, Zalewski had also had a few injury issues. Therefore, he had not yet made a start for Inter.

Zalewski Disappointing On Full Debut For Inter Milan Vs Cagliari

MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 10: Nicola Zalewski of FC Internazionale is challenged by Marin Pongracic of ACF Fiorentina during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on February 10, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

But Inter coach Simone Inzaghi gave the nod to Nicola Zalewski yesterday.

The Pole started in yesterday’s Serie A clash with Cagliari at the San Siro.

However, part of the reason that Inzaghi went with Zalewski was because he wanted to give Matteo Darmian a rest at right-wingback.

With Denzel Dumfries still absent, that only left Zalewski as an option on the right flank.

And while the Pole can play there, it is not his favoured flank.

And against Cagliari yesterday, that fact showed. Zalewski didn’t have much of an impact as he was not able to use his stronger left foot to dangerous effect.

Then, in defense, Zalewski lost his battle to Rossoblu wingback Tommas Augello.

Augello’s crosses with his left foot are among the Sardinians’ main weapons in attack.

And Zalewski was not able to really stick with Augello and prevent him from putting in dangerous deliveries – including for Cagliari’s second half goal.