Following his hernia surgery, Davide Frattesi received a surprise hospital visit from his new coach, Cristian Chivu, a gesture that profoundly changed the midfielder`s perspective. Once eager to depart, Frattesi is now content to remain in Milan, feeling valued by a coach who plans to build the team around him. This renewed trust from Chivu and the club`s decision to keep him off the transfer market have cemented Frattesi`s central position within the Nerazzurri`s future. His contract renewal is expected to be a key discussion point soon.
The Breakthrough
Despite his current contract running until June 30, 2028, discussions are expected to commence after the current transfer window regarding an extension. Both parties are open to extending the agreement until 2029, reflecting Frattesi`s rediscovered importance to the national team`s midfield. While specific figures are yet to be finalized, an increase to around 3.8 million net per year (from his current 2.8 million) is the initial proposal, potentially rising to 4 million. This would bring him closer to seasoned players like De Vrij and Mkhitaryan, and align him with starting wing-backs Dumfries and Dimarco. Although he won`t reach the salary heights of stars like Lautaro (9M) or Barella and Calhanoglu (6.5M), this new deal will signify his deeper integration and increased value within the Inter squad.
The Vision
Frattesi`s last official appearance was a month and a half ago, during the Champions League final in Munich, where he controversially remained on the bench despite scoring a crucial semi-final goal against Barcelona. This past season saw him with less than 2,000 minutes on the field and only 11 Serie A starts, leading to friction with former coach Inzaghi. Had Inzaghi remained, Frattesi would have pushed for a transfer, with Napoli reportedly keen. However, Chivu`s arrival changed everything. Even before his hospital visit, Chivu had signaled his intent to utilize Frattesi in a new tactical setup, moving away from the old fixed midfield trio. This new system, potentially a 4-2-3-1, promises the midfielder a more prominent attacking role, ensuring significantly more playing time.
And Geolier…
Frattesi`s nagging groin pain, which hampered the end of his 2024-25 season, was successfully resolved with hernia surgery last Thursday. His dedication to playing through the pain for Inter was highly valued by the club`s management. While a substantial offer from a major European club might alter the situation, the current management has no intention of selling him to a direct Italian rival. After being sidelined from the USA tour before the round of 16, Frattesi is now recuperating with his family in Costa Smeralda. The transfer market, once a tempting siren, is now a distant hum, thanks to the renewed confidence he feels. During his vacation, Davide enjoys charades with his mother, father, and brother, with his sister Chiara`s boyfriend, Geolier, attempting to guess. Meanwhile, he should guard that Scudetto shield on his chest closely, as his brother-in-law is eager to snatch it away immediately.
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