Serie A: End of an era as Inter Milan part ways with four title-winning veterans

By SABC Sport
30th June 2026

Inter Milan have ushered in the end of an era by confirming the departures of four experienced players.

Goalkeeper Yann Sommer and defenders Stefan de Vrij, Francesco Acerbi and Matteo Darmian have all left the club following the expiration of their contracts.

The exits mark the beginning of a significant rebuild for the Serie A champions, who are preparing to defend their Scudetto under coach Christian Chivu when the new season begins on the weekend of August 22-23.

Sommer's departure could prove the most significant. The 37-year-old Swiss goalkeeper joined Inter from Bayern Munich in 2023 and quickly established himself as a crucial figure, making 139 appearances and keeping 66 clean sheets during his three-year stay.

"Sommer carried responsibility with remarkable composure, giving confidence not only to his defenders but to the entire team," Inter said in a statement.

The veteran goalkeeper leaves with an impressive haul of two Serie A titles, an Italian Cup and an Italian Super Cup, while also helping Inter reach two Champions League finals. Spaniard Josep Martinez is expected to step up as his successor, although Inter have also been linked with Lazio goalkeeper Ivan Provedel.

The departures of Acerbi and De Vrij leave an even bigger void at the heart of Inter's defence. De Vrij, 34, spent eight seasons with the Nerazzurri and won nine trophies, including three Serie A titles and three Italian Cups. Acerbi, 38, arrived from Lazio in 2022 and lifted two league titles and two domestic cups during his four years in Milan.

Darmian, meanwhile, ends a six-year spell at Inter after winning nine trophies with the club. The 36-year-old struggled with injuries and limited playing time last season but remained a respected figure within the squad.

All three defenders also featured in two Champions League runner-up campaigns, underlining their importance during one of the most successful periods in the club's recent history.

With four senior figures departing simultaneously, Inter now face the challenge of refreshing an ageing squad while attempting to remain at the summit of Italian football.