Inter Boost As Denzel Dumfries Set To Return From Injury Ahead Of Schedule
The Dutchman could return for Inter in the coming weeks.
Giuseppe Labellarte
Updated on 29 January 2026
Denzel Dumfries has handed Inter a huge injury boost amid reports claiming he could be back ahead of schedule.
The Dutch wing-back has been out since early November and has missed a key stretch of the season for Simone Inzaghi’s side.
Dumfries underwent surgery in December to stabilise his left ankle, with Inter then planning a recovery period measured in months, not weeks.
Now the signs are more positive, with reports suggesting he could be available again for Inter’s Champions League playoffs.
Denzel Dumfries could be back from ankle injury in time for Champions League playoffs
Denzel Dumfries recently spoke at length about the difficulties of his road to recovery.
The 29-year-old said he had to accept that his injury needed time and patience rather than just hard work.
However, Dumfries is now reportedly ahead of schedule, Sky Sport Italia claiming he could be back by mid-February.
Prior reports suggested he would likely not be back in action until March.
However, Inter’s Champions League playoff ties take place over the midweeks of February 17-18 and 24-25.
A timely boost for Inter as Ivan Perisic talks go awry
Denzel Dumfries is a big player for Inter and, though the Nerazzurri have done well in his absence, they will be eager for him to come back as soon as possible.
Reports of him potentially being back in the next two to three weeks will be a huge boost for Cristian Chivu’s table-toppers.
But while Inter are five points clear at the top of the Serie A table, their Champions League situation is not as rosy.
The Nerazzurri will be in the playoffs, where they will face either Benfica or Bodo/Glimt.
🚨 Denzel Dumfries wins UEFA Man of the Match Award for Barcelona-Inter. pic.twitter.com/MnL49fyd4J
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) April 30, 2025
Inter have been looking at several alternatives in the January transfer market to cover for Dumfries.
Ivan Perisic is on Inter’s radar, but PSV have said no as they consider him too important.
Although talks are expected to continue in the coming days, it’s looking tricky for both Perisic and Inter.
Therefore, a Dumfries return ahead of schedule would be a major boost, especially if they miss out on Perisic.
Giuseppe Labellarte
Giuseppe Labellarte is a sports journalist with over a decade of professional experience in the industry. His main professional expertise is in soccer. Prior to joining FootItalia, he worked for the likes of Sports Mole, TBR Football, the Chelsea Chronicle and numerous other sites, along with having bylines in the likes of the Nottingham Post. He holds degrees in Journalism and International Relations.
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