Inter head coach Cristian Chivu has stressed that attitude and consistency are the non-negotiables underpinning his project as Inter prepare for a test against Udinese. He said the club’s foundations rely on the right mentality, acknowledging that there is still room for improvement but that certain standards must remain constant.
Chivu welcomed back Hakan Çalhanoğlu, praising the Turkish midfielder’s renewed motivation after a summer when he nearly left the club. “Çalhanoğlu is an important player. From day one of training, he showed he wants to be part of this group. He’s returned motivated, with the right mentality and he wants to leave last season behind,” the coach said.
The spotlight has also fallen on young striker Pio Esposito, who has earned an Italy call-up. Chivu stressed that expectations do not weigh on him, noting his long-standing relationship with the player. “I’ve known him since he was 13. He’s humble, he loves challenges and knows how far he still has to go. Now he can go enjoy his dream.”
Rotation and squad depth will be a feature of the season, with Chivu acknowledging that a packed calendar and Champions League commitments will test Inter’s resources. He hinted at experimentation with tactical variations, including the possibility of deploying three forwards depending on the situation. “There will be opportunities to see different solutions with three attackers,” he explained.
Meritocracy remains the guiding principle. Chivu made clear that every player must prepare at the highest level to deserve a place, describing the squad as a pool of 22 outfield players rather than a fixed XI.
Davide Frattesi’s role was singled out as well. Chivu called him a natural mezzala, capable of making intelligent runs, while also offering versatility to play off the striker or in a three-man midfield to provide balance.
Ahead of the Udinese clash, the Inter boss warned that there can be no let-up in mentality, attitude or quality. Udinese are described as a very physical side with a structured midfield, and they are known to pose a stern challenge.
Comments and context
– Chivu’s focus on attitude, structure and merit-based rotation signals a shift toward building mental resilience and depth across the squad, aiming to keep performance high across domestic and European duties.
– The return of Çalhanoğlu and Esposito’s rising profile add fresh momentum and a sense of continuity for a team planning to balance development with results.
– The potential use of three forwards and a flexible midfield suggests Inter are prepared to adapt to different opponents and competition formats, which could influence early-season form and selection.
Summary
Inter’s interim coach emphasizes mindset and consistency as the backbone of the team, while actively managing rotation to safeguard performance across a demanding schedule. With Çalhanoğlu back and Esposito making waves, plus a willingness to experiment tactically, Inter aim to stay competitive as they face Udinese and looming Champions League duties.
Positive note
The emphasis on meritocracy and player readiness can foster healthy competition within the squad, potentially driving improvement across the season and helping young talents like Esposito develop in a high-pressure environment.