Former Juventus & Lazio Striker Highlights Major Difference Between Cristian Chivu & Simone Inzaghi At Inter Milan | OneFootball

Paolo Di Canio believes Inter Milan have undergone a clear transformation under Cristian Chivu, crediting the coach with reshaping the team’s mentality, communication and tactical approach.

Speaking ahead of the Derby d’Italia, the former striker said Inter have steadily absorbed their coach’s principles after early doubts.

Indeed, evolving into a side capable of controlling matches and finishing opponents with authority.

According to Di Canio, the most significant shift has been psychological, via FCInterNews.

He argues Chivu has introduced a more direct mentality and greater intensity, while demanding clarity and decisiveness from his midfielders.

The result is a team more aggressive in transition and more ruthless once momentum swings in their favour.

Di Canio: ‘Chivu Communication Better Than Inzaghi At Inter’

GENOA, ITALY – DECEMBER 14: Cristian Chivu, head coach of Inter, reacts during the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and FC Internazionale at Luigi Ferraris Stadium on December 14, 2025 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)

He also stressed that improved internal and external communication has created stronger collective belief.

Rather than lowering expectations, Chivu reinforces the idea that Inter must compete for every objective.

Competition within the squad has also raised standards.

Young forwards pushing for minutes have intensified the attacking unit’s hunger, while the team’s technical quality and wide options continue to provide decisive solutions.

Di Canio believes these elements have helped Inter evolve into a more assertive, confident and complete side.

He explained that after early struggles, “Inter blossomed and began to absorb the coach’s ideas,” noting that Chivu introduced “a new mentality, quicker vertical play and higher pressing.”

He added that midfielders were asked to abandon unnecessary flourishes in favour of “determination and decisiveness.”

These are changes he says have helped Inter “kill matches.”

Comparing eras, Di Canio said the biggest difference lies in leadership. “Communication, internally and externally, is the complete opposite.”

He criticised the previous narrative of lowered expectations, arguing that Chivu instead reminds players, “we are Inter… we must fight to achieve all our objectives.”

He also highlighted the attacking depth, noting that younger forwards bring hunger and push the starters, creating a competitive environment that strengthens the team.

Ultimately, he believes Inter’s midfield quality and Dimarco’s delivery provide multiple attacking solutions.

Therefore warning that when the Nerazzurri find space, “Inter in attack hurt you, much more than Atalanta or Lazio.”