Cristian Chivu Praises Inter Milan Strength In Depth: “I Would Be Poor If I Didn’t Have 22 Starters” | OneFootball

Inter Milan coach Cristian Chivu has hailed his team’s strength, highlighting the quality of the squad at his disposal.

During his pre-match conference via FCInterNews, Chivu addressed potential personnel changes for tomorrow’s clash.

The Nerazzurri will face Slavia Prague at the Giuseppe Meazza on Tuesday night in their second Champions League game.

Marcus Thuram’s double inspired the Italian side to a comfortable 2-0 win at Ajax in their curtain-raising fixture.

However, there’s no room for complacency if they’re to automatically secure a place in the Round of 16.

Therefore, three points against Slavia Prague are imperative as Cristian Chivu eyes his second European win as a manager.

Meanwhile, Inter will take the field in high spirits after racking up a three-game winning streak in all competitions.

Saturday’s 2-0 triumph at Cagliari marked their second consecutive win in Serie A, setting them up nicely for this showdown.

Yet, Chivu might make some changes to his starting XI.

Cristian Chivu Hails Inter Milan Strength in Depth

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)

“I’ve always liked the performances, from the very first game, even during preseason this summer, even if it was short,” Inter Milan boss Cristian Chivu admitted.

“Of course, results always influence everyone’s judgment a little. Lately, we’ve given continuity to our results.

“But we need to focus on the next game and on the Champions League, because it’s an important competition that always hides pitfalls.

“The opponents always have quality and the desire to come to San Siro and get a result. We have to be aware that no match is easy.”

Then, he explained what he expects from his players.

“Consistency, maximum concentration at all times,” Chivu continued. “The humility of this team has shown that the group can grow in this regard; being dominant and always trying to take control of the game.

“There are opponents that can put you in difficulty.

“We need to recognize those famous moments, to maintain balance and bring home the victory without suffering too much.”

Furthermore, Chivu praised his squad’s compactness and humility.

“The desire to be dominant, to get through certain moments, to accept changes and different things compared to what they were used to doing.

“This is what a group of real men does: they never look back, only forward, with the desire to do everything possible to remain competitive.

“That’s to their credit, because they’re important players, important men, and it’s never a given to see this kind of application and humility.

“But they have it, and they want to improve it.”

Personnel Changes

PASADENA, CALIFORNIA – JUNE 17: Goalkeeper Yann Sommer of FC Internazionale Milano in action during the warm up prior to 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)

Yann Sommer could return between the sticks after starting the last two league games on the bench.

Indeed, Josep Martinez has become Inter’s new No.1 choice in goal. However, the Swiss veteran could get the nod in Europe.

“I’m lucky to have 22 players available who are all starters,” Chivu stated. “I start from there, because I train them, and if I thought otherwise, I’d be putting a stick in my own wheel.

“If not everyone could be considered a starter, then I’d be a poor coach.

“I always start from the 22, and they all deserve to be starters. If someone gives more or less, I’ll take the responsibility. That would mean I’m not training them properly or not transmitting what I want.

“Sommer, yes, will start tomorrow, I can tell you that.

“The changes have always been made with purpose, not just as a reward for what they are.

“However, also for merit, for their values, while always making sure not to lose balance, structure, and objectives.”

Meanwhile, Ange-Yoan Bonny is in contention for his first competitive start in the Nerazzurri shirt.

“They’re the ones who make it difficult for me every day with the way they train,” Chivu claimed.

“And since I’ve always said that I need to understand the right moments and give the right reward to these men. They are the ones who create the group and the team.

“I try to satisfy them because they deserve it. If I change one or two, the team doesn’t suffer.

“Unfortunately, I can’t always do it, but the right moment will come for everyone.

“They’re important players who always raise the level, in training or in games, whether they start or come from the bench.

“Dimash, who’s here, was decisive against Cagliari starting from the bench. I’d celebrate more for the defensive block he made in the box than for his assist.

“And these things need to be rewarded.

“In Dimarco’s case, it’s about rewarding the desire to contribute in both phases. However, this team-wide desire to help is something they all have, not just Dimash.”

Defensive Improvement & Brutal Schedule

MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 21: Manuel Akanji of Internazionale looks on as he warms up prior to the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and US Sassuolo Calcio at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on September 21, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Inter have gradually improved at the back since conceding four goals against Juventus.

Indeed, they’ve since capitulated just once in three matches. Meanwhile, Chivu explained how his players found their defensive solidity.

“Better pressing, better counter-pressing, the desire to quickly win second balls, focus…

“Of course, you can always concede a goal because the opponent exists too.

“But it’s about how you position yourself on the pitch, the pressure on their buildup, and the individual marking on the ball carrier…

“We’re more attentive and more determined to do that. It has always been one of our requests.

“Then, of course, there’s also the pride of champions. We’re talking about champions, and sooner or later, they bring out what they have inside and make the difference.”

Then, he addressed Inter’s congested fixture schedule at the start of the season.

Asked whether this early stage is crucial, Chivu replied: “Exactly because you can’t afford to get distracted, it’s pointless to look too far ahead.

“We need to focus on tomorrow, on Slavia, who are the trickiest of all.

“Football has taught me to keep my feet on the ground and look only at the immediate future, not too far ahead.

“Otherwise, expectations create disappointments. The most important game is always the next one.”

Chivu also revealed his expectations for tomorrow’s match.

“A tough game,” he said. “Every match in the Champions League is difficult. We respect Slavia, their coach, and what they’re building.

“They’re a very strong team, and I’m sure they’ll play a great game at San Siro tomorrow. They’re still unbeaten this season.

“We need to be the best version of ourselves, controlling our game, showing quality, and doing everything we know how to do and have learned from this competition.”

Yann Bisseck & Hakan Calhanoglu

MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 02: Yann Aurel Bisseck of FC Internazionale warms up prior to the Coppa Italia Semi Final match between AC Milan and FC Internazionale at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on April 02, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Still sidelined with an injury, Yann Bisseck has not featured for Inter since a 2-1 home defeat to Udinese.

“He’s doing well, training well. Sooner or later, we’ll see him on the pitch too,” Inter Milan manager Cristian Chivu said.

Then, he explained the notable rise of Hakan Calhanoglu following a turbulent summer.

Indeed, the Turkish midfield has been a key midfield player for Chivu this season.

“I also have Zielinski as an alternative.

“They are quality players who give that extra bit in terms of possession, knowledge, and experience, because they’re developed, strong, and talented.