Ajax 0-2 Inter Milan: Chivu Reveals Why He Chose A 3-5-2 In UCL Opener – Adds: “Inter Will Enjoy Esposito For A Long Time” | OneFootball

Inter Milan manager Cristian Chivu explained his decision to stick with a 3-5-2 formation in tonight’s Champions League triumph over Ajax.

Speaking to Sky Sport via FCInterNews, the 44-year-old also heaped praise on prodigious striker Francesco Pio Esposito.

Despite missing Lautaro Martinez due to a minor injury problem, Inter got their European season off to a dream start.

Indeed, Marcus Thuram shrugged off recent criticism to deliver a ‘Man of the Match’ performance in Amsterdam.

The 28-year-old center-forward scored on either side of halftime to inspire the Nerazzurri  to a 2-0 victory.

Meanwhile, Francesco Pio Esposito filled the void in attack, taking El Toro’s place next to the French superstar.

Although he failed to score on his Champions League debut, the 20-year-old showed signs of his talent.

Furthermore, Cristian Chivu opted for a 3-5-2 setup, even though he vowed to switch to a 3-4-2-1 before the season started.

Cristian Chivu Delivers Verdict on Ajax 0-2 Inter Milan Win

PARMA, ITALY – MAY 18: Cristian Chivu head coach of Parma calcio during the Serie A match between Parma and Napoli at Stadio Ennio Tardini on May 18, 2025 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

“We were close, today the boys showed maturity,” Chivu said after the match. “We tried to take away Ajax’s strengths, pressed them high, and denied them possession.

“And we had the courage and desire to stay in their half. The maturity shown tonight really pleases me.”

Then, he hailed Esposito.

“You saw it yourselves. As I’ve already said, he’s a striker that both the Italian national team and Inter will enjoy for a long time.”

Meanwhile, Chivu’s former teammate, Goran Pandev, asked him about the formation.

“You’ve become a journalist now,” the Romanian replied. “Yes, I wanted to play 3-5-2 because I didn’t want to take away certainties.

“We only needed to change a few things and add a couple more, while regaining confidence and the mental side, which is very important.

“I’m not stupid; I stick to my path and my convictions, without causing damage to a team that was already strong.”