A Stunning Comeback! Inter’s Forgotten Man Returns After 756 Days, Showcasing Two Key Strengths

Inter Milan’s clash with Verona delivered a spectacle no one could have anticipated. When the starting lineup was announced, Inter fans collectively gasped. Missing were Hakan Çalhanoğlu, Lautaro Martínez, Federico Dimarco, and Benjamin Pavard—four of the seven most expensive players in Inter’s squad. Yet the most shocking inclusion was Joaquín Correa, a name long absent from Inter’s starting XI.

The Argentine forward, who had last started for Inter a staggering 550 days ago in May 2023, was thrust into action for the first time in what felt like an eternity. Many fans feared the worst, and the opening minutes seemed to confirm their concerns.

In just the fifth minute, Verona tested goalkeeper Yann Sommer with a powerful header. A minute later, Inter’s woodwork shuddered under another Verona attack. By the 15th minute, things took an even worse turn as Francesco Acerbi, the anchor of Inter’s defense, left the field injured. At this point, the match seemed poised to spiral out of control for the Nerazzurri.

Yet football’s charm lies in its unpredictability, and the ensuing minutes would offer a perfect illustration. In a span of just seven minutes, Inter turned their seemingly perilous situation on its head with two lightning-quick counterattacks. The man at the heart of this transformation? None other than Correa.

Correa’s Redemption Arc

The magic began in the 16th minute. Stefan de Vrij delivered a precise pass into the box, which Correa cleverly dummied, allowing Marcus Thuram to provide a first-time assist back to Correa. The Argentine darted into space and coolly lobbed the onrushing goalkeeper to score his first Serie A goal since October 2022—an agonizing 756-day drought.

Just minutes later, Correa dropped deep to collect the ball near the center circle. Spotting Thuram’s run, he unleashed a perfectly weighted long pass, splitting Verona’s defense and leaving Thuram with a simple finish. Remarkably, it was Correa’s first Serie A game with both a goal and an assist since July 2020.

Social media exploded. Fans and pundits, stunned by Correa’s sudden resurgence, responded with disbelief and humor. Comments ranged from “Is this really Correa?” to comparisons with legends like Maradona and Ronaldo. Some Inter supporters cheekily dubbed him “Il Fenomeno Verde” (The Green Phenomenon), likening him to comic book heroes for his improbable comeback.

By the end of the match, Correa had added another assist and struck the woodwork twice, capping a sensational performance. Inter’s 5-0 halftime lead marked a historic achievement—their largest halftime margin in Serie A history. Three of those five goals were directly influenced by Correa, who deservedly walked away with the Man of the Match award.

Inter’s Secret Ingredients: Attitude and Atmosphere

Correa’s unexpected heroics highlighted two of Inter’s most valuable qualities: the importance placed on attitude and the supportive culture within the club.

A Coach Who Rewards Effort

Correa’s stock couldn’t have been lower coming into this season. His underwhelming loan spell at Marseille had all but erased public confidence in him. Throughout the summer, Inter actively tried to offload him but found no takers. Despite this, Correa never wavered in his professionalism. From the moment he returned early for preseason training, he worked tirelessly, even as his opportunities to play remained scarce.

Simone Inzaghi, recognizing Correa’s dedication, made the bold decision to reward him with a start against Verona. The move paid off spectacularly, reaffirming the idea that talent and reputation can only go so far in football; effort and attitude are just as crucial. Inzaghi’s philosophy of giving chances to those who earn them sends a powerful message to the entire squad, fostering a culture where hard work is always recognized.

A Family Atmosphere

Inter’s locker room is another key factor behind Correa’s resurgence. In many clubs, a player relegated to the fringes might feel isolated or forgotten. But at Inter, even the least prominent squad members remain integral parts of the team.

When Correa scored his first goal, his teammates rushed to celebrate with him, their genuine joy evident. Thuram even humorously mimicked Correa’s signature celebration, lightening the mood and reinforcing the sense of camaraderie.

Similarly, a segment of Inter’s loyal fanbase never abandoned Correa, continuing to show him support even during his struggles. Their faith was finally rewarded, and they took to social media in droves to express their vindication. This collective sense of belonging—within the team and among the fans—creates an environment where players can rediscover their best form, even after prolonged periods of adversity.

Lessons from a Night of Surprises

The story of Correa’s improbable revival offers broader lessons about the human side of football. It underscores the power of perseverance, the value of a supportive team culture, and the importance of trust—whether it comes from a coach, teammates, or fans.

Two years ago, Correa seemed destined to fade into obscurity. Yet on a chilly night against Verona, he reminded the world of his talent and why Inter once invested in him. While some may credit fate or "green magic," the real reasons behind his transformation lie in his unwavering effort and the unique environment Inter provides.

For Inter Milan, the match was more than just three points. It was a testament to their philosophy, proving that even in the face of setbacks, extraordinary surprises are always possible.