Mkhitaryan proves his class: 36-year-old Armenian shines in Inter’s 5–0 win over Torino

The 36-year-old Armenian midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan began his fourth and final season (under contract) with Inter Milan as if he plans to keep playing at a high level for just as long. The example of Luka Modrić, who made his debut for AC Milan at the age of 40, suggests that it is indeed possible.

In the opening round of the 2025/26 Serie A season, Inter crushed Torino 5–0 at home. Marcus Thuram scored twice, while Lautaro Martínez, Alessandro Bastoni, and debutant Ange-Yoan Bonny each added a goal.

As always, Henrikh Mkhitaryan masterfully orchestrated the Nerazzurri’s attacks from midfield. The Armenia national team veteran was involved in two goals: he initiated the move for the second goal with a precise pass into the box, and later his aggressive pressing created the chance that led to Thuram receiving a perfect ball from Sučić. In the second half, Mkhitaryan provided the pre-assist for Inter’s fifth goal.

In this match, the Milan side played with a refreshed midfield: instead of the injured Hakan Çalhanoğlu, Petar Sučić started.

Mkhitaryan’s stats vs Torino:

• Minutes played: 79
• xG (expected goals): 0.22
• xA (expected assists): 0.25
• Accurate passes: 39 (89%)
• Key passes: 1
• Shots: 1
• Long passes: 3 out of 4
• Duels won: 1 out of 5
• Ball losses: 9
• Fouls: 1
• Tackles: 1
• SofaScore rating: 7.1

Italian media ratings:

fcinternews (6.5): With his possible successor (Sučić) on the field dictating the tempo, the Armenian shows he still has the qualities to lead a top-level team. In the final third he makes some mistakes and does not end up among the scorers.

Passioneinter (6): Moves a lot between the lines and actively combines with the two fellow midfielders, displaying energy and high class in the center.

Nerazzurrisiamonoi (6.5): A valuable player. It may not be immediately noticeable, but as always his contribution is significant, even if he missed a good chance.

Oggisportnotizie (6.5): At the start of every season he seems to be losing form, yet he remains a key player and demonstrates outstanding quality of play.