Cristian Chivu Previews Ajax Vs Inter Milan Champions League Opener: “I Know What They Think” | OneFootball

Cristian Chivu will make his managerial debut in the Champions League when Inter Milan take on Ajax later tonight.

Speaking to Prime via FCInterNews, the 44-year-old tactician previewed the game that could determine his fate at San Siro.

Indeed, Cristian Chivu has already come under heavy scrutiny.

Despite demolishing Torino on his Serie A debut, the Romanian coach has lost two consecutive games.

Udinese and Juventus have got the better of Inter in the last two Serie A rounds.

In doing so, they’ve condemned the Nerazzurri to their worst top-flight start in 14 years.

Furthermore, Chivu’s charges already trail Napoli and Juventus by six points.

Therefore, the margin for error is thin.

Meanwhile, anticipation is building ahead of the new Champions League campaign.

After reaching two finals in the last three editions, Inter head into this season with high ambitions.

With that in mind, a winning start against Ajax is crucial to set the tone for the campaign.

Moreover, it would restore confidence in Chivu’s leadership.

Cristian Chivu Previews Ajax vs Inter Milan Clash

MILAN, ITALY – AUGUST 25: Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of Internazionale, gestures during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Torino FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on August 25, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

“What’s missing for tonight? The performance and the win, and that’s what I’m focused on,” Chivu admitted.

“I know the atmosphere and the stadium, Ajax’s ambitions, and I also know what they think when facing an Italian team.

“I expect a tough match. They’ll do everything to put us under pressure and try to take the win, just as we have to be ready to handle the different moments of the game.

“In the Champions League, it’s important to start well.

“I expect to make that small leap in terms of results because of the performances we’ve already delivered.

“We’ve always lacked something, and I want that to no longer be the case. I know who I am, I have my dreams, and I give my all.

“I always try to help my players; I don’t think about myself or my reputation because conscience is more important than reputation, and mine is clear.”

Then, he confirmed that Yann Sommer will retain his place in the starting XI.

“He’s a great goalkeeper, and it’s not right to put him on display just because someone thinks he made mistakes.

“I don’t need to remind him of that. I have a squad to manage, and I can’t be drastic over a first mistake.

“It wouldn’t be consistent with what I do in the locker room. The players need my support and trust, because only then can you achieve good football and results.

“I respect Martinez; he also knows what I think, and that his moment will come sooner or later.”