Inter Milan Vs Kairat Almaty – Cristian Chivu Explains Starting XI Choice Regarding Argentina Megastar: “Need His Spirit, Thuram Not 100%” | OneFootball

Inter Milan coach Cristian Chivu explained why he decided to start Lautaro Martinez in tonight’s home clash against Kairat Almaty.

Speaking to Prime via FCInterNews, the 45-year-old highlighted the importance of the Argentine’s presence on the field.

Despite making eight consecutive starts in all competitions, Cristian Chivu refused to bench El Toro.

Although Lautaro Martinez has not been at his best in Serie A, scoring just three goals in ten rounds, he has impressed in Europe.

Indeed, the 28-year-old has netted three goals in as many Champions League appearances so far.

Therefore, Chivu has decided not to rest his talismanic center-forward despite Inter’s strong pre-match favoritism.

Moreover, Francesco Pio Esposito will partner up with the former Racing Club star in attack at the expense of Ange-Yoan Bonny.

Meanwhile, Marcus Thuram has returned to the squad after spending nearly 40 days on the sidelines with a hamstring injury.

Chivu Explains Decision to Play Lautaro Martinez in Inter Milan vs Kairat Almaty Clash

MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 30: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale celebrates after scoring their team’s first goal during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD2 match between FC Internazionale Milano and SK Slavia Praha at Stadio San Siro on September 30, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Asked why he didn’t rest El Toro, Chivu replied: “Because they complement each other. I’ve had only three forwards for a month, and it’s right to rotate.

“Marcus is not yet at 100% and maybe today he will play a few minutes, while Bonny started at Verona.

“We have always made rotations. The captain always plays because his spirit is needed; he is a leader, and his presence is necessary.”

Then, Chivu discussed his previous statement regarding Lautaro, urging his captain to ‘smile more.’

“We’ve been talking about this for a while,” Chivu added. “We mustn’t carry too many thoughts.

He must think of what he represents for this group. Indeed, he is a World Champion, he is writing the history of Inter with goals and more.

“He must stay calm; goals will come.”

Finally, he admitted that he expects Inter to live up to expectations tonight.

“The objective is to deliver a great performance, to respect ourselves and the competition, and to do everything we can to win it.”