Chivu downplays result, stresses growth ahead of Inter‑Milan friendly in Perth

While supporters dream of immediate silverware, Inter head coach Cristian Chivu insists the upcoming friendly against Milan in Perth is about preparation, not results, stressing that the club’s priority is to arrive at the new season ready. He emphasises player development, youth integration and careful recovery of World Cup returnees.

Chivu presented the friendly against Milan as a platform to grow the squad, give minutes to young players and manage the return of national team members from the Mondiale. He highlighted the "SCHEDE GIOCATORE 26/27 AL FANTACALCIO" as part of the club’s broader development plan.

According to TuttoMercatoWeb, the coach wants to increase playing time for several squad members and boost their physical condition ahead of the campaign start. The emphasis is on minute accumulation rather than the match outcome.

"I want to see growth, physically and condition-wise. I don’t look at the type of match we have to face. I’m interested that some players get a few more minutes, always considering the recovery from the time‑zone shift and the risks we can take," Chivu explained.

When asked whether he would sign to win the Scudetto while losing both derbies, he replied, "That’s a question for the fans. My concern is to find the best condition for my players. Tomorrow’s match is a friendly and the August trophies mean nothing."

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Addressing the squad’s World Cup returnees, Chivu said, "I doubt they will be ready for the first league match. We will see how much time is needed, but we do not want to take unnecessary risks."

On tactics, he reiterated his philosophy: "I talk about playing principles, how to face and manage games. We want to be competitive, dominant and able to adapt to opponents. I have a group willing to sacrifice and learn new things."

Discussing the idea of playing a Serie A fixture abroad, Chivu added, "Promoting Italian football is important. It could be a good idea to play the first round outside Italy, arriving early and then returning to continue the season."

He concluded with a message to the Primavera youngsters integrated into the first team: "I hope they follow the example of Federico, Pio and Aleksandar. Their future depends on the intensity they show and their ability to raise the level when they play with the seniors."

The contrast between fan expectations for immediate trophies and Chivu’s focus on preparation, youth development and cautious reintegration of World Cup players reveals a long‑term building strategy for Inter as it heads into the new campaign.