Inter's Bernabeu Night and Dimarco's Contract Talks
Inter are in Madrid to start a new Champions League campaign. Behind the scenes, they are also trying to lock down one of their most important players.
As Simone Inzaghi’s side prepare to face Real Madrid at the Bernabeu at 20:00 UK time (21:00 CEST), Federico Dimarco is not on the pitch. He is injured, working his way back with a support strap on his knee after feeling discomfort in the build-up to the opening group game of the 2026-27 season.
Yet Dimarco still dominates the Inter agenda tonight.
Contract talks in the Bernabeu stands
Sky Sport Italia report that Dimarco’s agent, Arturo Canales, is in the stands in Madrid and has used the occasion to sit down in person with Inter’s new sporting director, Dario Baccin.
No formal announcement, no big show. Just a crucial conversation at a pivotal moment.
Dimarco recently made it clear he was still waiting for a concrete proposal on a new deal, despite his current contract running until June 2028. That public reminder raised the temperature around his situation and underlined how much leverage he holds.
He has every reason to push. The Italy international was named Serie A Player of the Season for 2025-26, a recognition that reflects his rise from academy product and fan favourite to one of the most decisive wing-backs in Europe. His status on the pitch now demands a salary that matches it.
New power structure at Inter
For Inter, the timing of this meeting also matters. Baccin has just stepped up into the role of director of sport, replacing Piero Ausilio after years as his trusted right-hand man. Madrid offers him an immediate test: manage a flagship renewal, calm any tension, and show continuity in one of the club’s most delicate dossiers.
With Dimarco and Djed Spence both out for the clash against Real Madrid, Inter must improvise on the left tonight. But the bigger picture is clear. Securing Dimarco’s future on improved terms is not just about rewarding last season’s best player in Serie A.
It is about making sure that when Inter return to nights like this, in stadiums like this, their most influential left foot is on the pitch — and firmly tied to their project.
