Inter will not let Carlos Augusto go: why selling him would be a mistake

Until a few weeks ago, Carlos Augusto looked like one of the possible - perhaps even likely - departures at Inter Milan. The reason was mainly linked to his desire for more playing time, even though Cristian Chivu has used him regularly. The Brazilian, however, was aiming for a leading role in a new environment. That picture has now changed. Inter have never had any doubts about keeping the former AC Monza player, and now Carlos Augusto also wants to speak with the club first to understand their intentions.

The difference appears to have been made by Chivu’s work in convincing him to stay in Milan for next season as well, in what promises to be another demanding campaign for the Italian champions across Serie A and the cup competitions.

After all, the coach knows perfectly well that losing a player like Carlos Augusto would be no small matter. Since arriving at Inter, the Brazilian has proved hugely important within the squad, above all because of his versatility.

Simone Inzaghi before him, and Chivu after him, have used him both as the left-sided centre-back in a back three and as a wing-back, with positive results in both roles. In other words, finding another player capable of covering several positions with the same reliability would be anything but straightforward.

Inter know that, which is why they do not want to - and should not - part company with Carlos Augusto this summer. A final decision may come only after the player has held talks with the club.