Internazionale rejected bids for 19-year-old forward Matteo Lavelli from Venezia, Genoa, and other clubs last summer, choosing to keep him at the club to play for the U23 squad while training with the first team. This decision is now proving worthwhile.
During last summer's transfer window, Internazionale decided to retain Matteo Lavelli, turning down offers from clubs including Venezia and Genoa.
Lavelli was not expected to feature in the squad but came on as a substitute in the 85th minute. More remarkably, he played 16 minutes due to stoppage time and proved instrumental in Internazionale's comeback. After the match, head coach Cristian Chivu publicly praised his performance. For the 19-year-old, it was an unexpected breakthrough.
Against Fiorentina, Internazionale fell behind 0-1 but ultimately scored twice in the final stages to win 2-1. Lavelli actively contributed to the team's late offensive push, helping secure the comeback through his positioning, box runs, and constant movement in the opposition half. Given he was not initially considered a key player for the match, his performance was certainly a welcome surprise.
Looking back at Internazionale's summer decision, club management clearly has reason to be pleased. According to FcInterNews.it, multiple clubs had expressed interest in Lavelli, including Serie A sides Venezia and Genoa, both of whom made concrete bids, as well as several Serie B clubs seeking to acquire him.
However, Internazionale chose to retain the 2006-born forward, charting a development path within the club. Lavelli continues playing for the U23 squad while gaining regular training opportunities with the first team, gradually sharpening his abilities and adapting to professional football.
Rather than loaning or selling him to other clubs, where he might face stiff competition and limited game time, Internazionale preferred to develop him in-house while maintaining his commitment to the black and blue. This decision is now paying dividends, with the Fiorentina match serving as a prime example.
With Lautaro unavailable, Cristian Chivu has recently turned to youth squad prospects to bolster the first team, and Lavelli has progressively earned consideration, receiving multiple opportunities.
Lavelli is likely to be included in Internazionale's squad for the upcoming match against Venezia. Had the club made a different decision last summer, he might now be wearing a Venezia shirt facing Inter as an opponent.