Inter president Marotta rejects Icardi return despite striker shortage

Inter president Giuseppe Marotta confirmed that the club will not sign Mauro Icardi, stating the 33-year-old free agent does not fit their plans. Marotta also declared that Inter will not bring in a fifth striker to address current squad issues. This decision comes despite reports that Icardi had offered himself to the club as a solution to injury and illness problems affecting the attacking lineup.

Marotta acknowledged that three of Inter's four registered strikers had recently fallen ill. The reigning Serie A champions have faced significant availability issues in attack during this period of congestion. Despite these absences, the administration has decided against adding another forward to the roster for the current campaign.

Icardi has been without a club since 1 July following the expiration of his contract with Galatasaray after four seasons. He previously played for Inter between 2013 and 2019. Transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano reported that Icardi was considered a market option and wanted to return to the Milanese side, though Romano separately stated that Inter never considered bringing him back during the summer or September windows and held no negotiations.

The squad depth concerns were evident during the recent derby against AC Milan, which Inter lost 1-3. Coach Cristi Chivu faced serious squad problems during that match. Chivu, aged 46, is currently in charge of the first team and has received public backing from the presidency despite the difficult circumstances.

Marotta praised Chivu as a modern coach with an attacking tactical approach, according to comments cited by journalist Daniele Mari. The president’s support for the coach’s methods stands in contrast to the refusal to provide additional striking reinforcements, indicating confidence in the existing system and personnel despite the recent illness crisis.

Inter are scheduled to play Feyenoord in matchday 4 of the Champions League league phase on 3 November 2026 at 22:00. The fixture arrives immediately following the confirmation that no new striker will be added, meaning Chivu must navigate the upcoming European competition with his currently available attacking options.