Inter Milan's defensive performance has been under scrutiny in recent weeks, with the club struggling to keep clean sheets and concede goals at a high rate. Henrikh Mkhitaryan, the midfielder who has been heavily criticized for his lack of defensive contribution, has been a central figure in this problem.
Mkhitaryan's role as a deep-lying playmaker has often led him to drop deeper into midfield and leave the backline exposed. However, Inter's defense is not only dependent on Mkhitaryan but also on their overall team structure and tactical approach.
The Italian giants have struggled defensively due to several factors, including a lack of cohesion between the defense and the midfield, a poor understanding between the defenders and the goalkeeper, and a lack of discipline in the penalty area. The team's defensive record has been one of their biggest concerns throughout the season, with just four wins from their last 14 matches.
Despite the criticism, Inter's defense remains a solid unit, and they have shown glimpses of resilience against some of Europe's top teams. However, Mkhitaryan's inability to provide the necessary defensive support has become a major issue that needs to be addressed.
The Armenian midfielder has been linked with moves away from Inter in recent months, with Manchester United and Juventus among the clubs reportedly interested. If he leaves the club, it could be a significant blow to their defense, which would need to find new ways to cope without him.
In conclusion, Inter Milan's defensive performance cannot be solely attributed to Henrikh Mkhitaryan. The team's struggles can be traced back to various issues within the squad, such as a lack of discipline and a poor understanding between the defense and the midfield. While Mkhitaryan's role may be a contributing factor, the team's overall defensive strategy must be improved if they hope to turn things around and regain their form.