Inter Milan began their Serie A title defense with an emphatic 4-1 victory against promoted side Monza at the San Siro on Saturday.

The match started positively for Inter as Hakan Calhanoglu found the net just six minutes in. However, the hosts displayed a lack of focus, allowing Gustavo Varela to equalize for Monza shortly before the 30-minute mark.

After halftime, Inter reasserted their dominance:

• Piotr Zielinski scored just three minutes into the second half.
• Goals from Pio Esposito and Yann Bisseck sealed the comprehensive win for Cristian Chivu’s side.

In a noteworthy moment, England defender John Stones made his debut for Inter, joined by compatriots and recent signings Djed Spence and Curtis Jones, who watched from the stands.

Elsewhere in Serie A, last season's surprise package Como managed a 1-1 draw against Udinese, thanks to a second-half equalizer from Tasos Douvikas. Como is set to make their Champions League debut next month after finishing fourth under Cesc Fàbregas.

In other action, Napoli, last season’s runners-up, prepared to face Genoa later on Saturday.

In La Liga, Barcelona coach Hansi Flick announced that new signing Rodri will miss the opener against Elche but may feature in the following match against Athletic Bilbao. Flick praised Rodri's focus and leadership qualities.

Rayo Vallecano secured a 3-1 victory over Athletic Bilbao, taking advantage of an early red card to Yuri Berchiche. Oso opened the scoring and provided assists for Chidera Ejuke and Isaac Romero.

In Ligue 1, Florian Thauvin scored two penalties for Lens in their 5-2 win against Auxerre, who saw Christ Makosso sent off in the first half.