Chivu lauds Inter's courage at Bernabeu as they stay on course
Inside the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu, Cristian Chivu stood before a sea of reporters, praising the courage and character his side displayed against Real Madrid and insisting the Nerazzurri remain on the right path despite the narrow defeat in the Champions League opener.
Champions League setback
Inter fell 2‑1 to Real Madrid in the Champions League opener, despite enjoying more possession throughout the game. Jose Mourinho’s side capitalised on two defensive lapses that Chivu described as “howlers”. The result in MADRID left them wanting more.
Serie A revival and injury news
Just days earlier in MILAN, Inter produced a dramatic 3‑2 comeback against SSC Napoli at the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza, overturning a 2‑0 deficit in stoppage time. Federico Dimarco, who missed the Madrid clash, returned to the squad, while Djed Spence continued his rehabilitation. Chivu also noted Hakan Calhanoglu’s lingering injury from the Coppa Italia final and the World Cup, stressing the need to restore all players to full fitness.
Looking ahead, Chivu warned that Udinese possess both physicality and quality that could trouble Inter, praising their coach’s work over recent seasons. He added that Udinese’s style will be a key factor when the two sides meet later in the campaign.
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The manager reiterated that the club’s focus remains on growth rather than immediate results. “We must keep developing, stay self‑believing and ignore external criticism,” he said, reminding everyone that Inter’s base in ITALY is proud of the progress made since September. He made the remarks in SEPTEMBER.
Inter’s next Serie A fixture kicks off at San Siro on Sunday at 19.45 UK time (20.45 CEST). The match will be a test of the squad’s depth and the manager’s tactical adjustments after the recent European defeat.
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Reflecting on his first year, Chivu recalled the surprise loss to Udinese in Week 2 of the previous season, a setback that sparked a double‑trophy haul a year later for FC Internazionale. He stressed that interpreting tactical systems is less important than each player’s understanding of movement, describing the side as “evolved”. The upcoming clash against AC Monza at the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza will further test those ideas.