Inter Milan Old Guard Ready For Statement Test As Coach Backs Leaders Before Huge Clash With Napoli | OneFootball

Inter Milan will lean on their most experienced core once again, with Corriere dello Sport reporting that Christian Chivu is prepared to trust the old guard for tomorrow’s statement showdown against Napoli at the Maradona.

The coach is determined to rely on the same leaders who carried the club to the second star, convinced that their mentality, memory and scars remain a decisive strength.

With Marcus Thuram still unavailable, the only expected change is the return of Akanji, while the rest of the historic backbone is set to start.

For Inter, the match is more than a top-of-the-table clash: it is an emotional checkpoint after last season’s near miss, as per FCInter1908.

Chivu, however, continues to insist the past is gone, focusing instead on clarity, belief and credibility inside the dressing room.

Chivu Turns To Inter Milan Core For Napoli Clash

MILAN, ITALY – OCTOBER 04: FC Internazionale coach Cristian Chivu looks on before the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and US Cremonese at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on October 04, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

According to the report, the old guard has channelled last season’s frustration into renewed hunger.

A poor start had sparked doubts but Inter responded with a winning streak that revived momentum.

Meanwhile Napoli stumbled under the pressure of a double-front campaign.

Now both sides are managing Champions League commitments.

Indeed, Chivu’s men believe the conditions are truly equal and the test more revealing.

Chivu reinforced his message after granting the squad a full rest day this week.

Therefore, aiming to lighten tension rather than amplify it.

He wants a side that is lucid, aggressive, united and, above all, credible in key moments.

The Romanian coach has rebuilt confidence in a group many considered at the end of a cycle.

Beating the reigning champions in their own stadium would be more than three points.

It would be a statement of intent from Inter’s core.