Chivu Reveals ‘I Still Have Some Doubts’ About Starting XI For Inter Milan Vs Fluminense | OneFootball

Cristian Chivu says that he “still has some doubts” about his starting eleven for Inter Milan’s Club World Cup clash with Fluminense.

The Nerazzurri coach spoke to DAZN, via FCInterNews, ahead of today’s match.

Inter Milan take on Fluminense in the Club World Cup round of sixteen this evening.

At stake is a place in the quarterfinals, where they would meet the winner of the other round of sixteen match today between Manchester City and Al-Hilal.

There are some fitness issues heading into today’s match.

For example, striker Francesco Pio Esposito has reportedly pulled out of training for Inter in the last couple days. The 20-year-old had reportedly been the favourite to start after his start turn against River Plate.

Meanwhile, Davide Frattesi has returned to Italy for injury tests. The 25-year-old will play no part at the Club World Cup this summer.

Chivu: “Still Have Some Doubts” About Inter Starting XI Vs Fluminense

PASADENA, CALIFORNIA – JUNE 17: Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of FC Internazionale Milano, reacts during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 group E match between CF Monterrey and FC Internazionale Milano at Rose Bowl Stadium on June 17, 2025 in Pasadena, California. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

As far as his selection decisions, Inter coach Cristian Chivu said that “you always have doubts with the lineup.”

“The ten past players I think can help the team are the ones I’ll choose,” added the Romanian.

“Not forgetting that there are five substitutions available. And six if it goes to extra time.”

Meanwhile, Chivu said that he “doesn’t know” if Marcus Thuram will be available to play for  ninety minutes.

“I don’t think so,” the Nerazzurri coach admitted. “But he has to find a way if there;s  a need.

“That’s how it works. You have to make yourself available. Always give everything you have, whether it’s an hour, seventy minutes, eighty, ninety, whatever.”

Chivu confirmed that Thuram “has trained with us in the last few days, and has improved physically.”

“He looks to be in better spirits. The small issue he had with his thigh flexor is behind him, and he’s available like everyone else.”

And of Davide Frattesi’s exit from the squad, Chivu said that “We always think about player’s safety.”

“And about what they can give us in the future.”

“We tried,” Chivu said of getting Frattesi back available. “And he tried everything to make himself available for this tournament.”

“But unfortunately, the pain is persisting. So it’s useless to wait day by day and see how he is.”

“We sent him back to Europe for more tests and to give him time to heal,” Chivu said of Frattesi.