Cristian Chivu Hails ‘Decisive’ Starlet After Important Role In Inter Milan Victory At Atalanta | OneFootball

Inter Milan head coach Cristian Chivu praised the impact of Pio Esposito after the Nerazzurri closed 2025 with a crucial 1-0 win over Atalanta, a result that sent Inter top of the Serie A table at the end of the year.

Speaking in his post-match press conference, Cristian Chivu highlighted the difficulty of the challenge in Bergamo and the importance of contributions from across the squad.

“It’s an important victory on a very difficult pitch,” Chivu said.

“Atalanta were improving and in good condition. We knew that and we tried to do our best. In the first half they allowed us something down the right, but we lacked clarity in the final 15 metres. Still, the team did a great job, including the substitutes, who were decisive, especially Pio Esposito. But also the others, who rolled up their sleeves when it was needed in the final minutes.”

Atalanta 0-1 Inter – Chivu Full Of Praise For Pio Esposito

BARI, ITALY – AUGUST 16: Francesco Pio Esposito of Inter during Pre-Season Friendly match between FC Internazionale and Olympiacos FC at Stadio San Nicola on August 16, 2025 in Bari, Italy. (Photo by Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images)

The Inter coach then expanded on the value of his young forward, who provided the assist for Lautaro Martinez’s winning goal against Atalanta.

“I have four forwards who have all left a strong mark on our league campaign,” Chivu explained.

“Pio is fundamental, just like Bonny. You already know the value of Lautaro and Thuram. Pio and Bonny are players who make themselves loved by the group.”

Chivu’s words underlined the trust he places in Inter’s attacking depth and the importance of squad unity, particularly in a demanding away fixture that required patience, resilience and decisive moments from the bench.

With the year ending on a high, Inter head into the new calendar year with momentum, confidence and growing belief in the club’s next generation.