Inter Milan & Italy Legend Backs Cristian Chivu: ‘He Knows What It Means To Be An Interista, He Was Part Of The Treble Dressing Room’ | OneFootball

Legendary former defender Marco Materazzi believes that Cristian Chivu has what it takes to be a success at Inter Milan.

The 2006 World Cup winner with Italy spoke to Sky Sport Italia, via FCInterNews. He backed his former teammate to do well as coach of the Nerazzurri.

Inter Milan have made Cristian Chivu their new coach.

While the 44-year-old has a long association with the Nerazzurri from his playing days, he is nevertheless something of a surprise name to replace Simone Inzaghi.

Chivu has also coached Inter at various youth levels, with a fair bit of success.

However, the Romanian only has a grand total of thirteen matches of senior coaching experience under his belt. Therefore, his appointment certainly constitutes a risk for Inter.

Materazzi Backs Cristian Chivu To Be A Success As Inter Milan Coach

VERONA, ITALY – MARCH 31: Cristian Chivu head coach of Parma calcio during the Serie A match between Verona and Parma at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on March 31, 2025 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

Legendary former defender Marco Materazzi was a teammate of Cristian Chivu for several seasons.

“Chivu does this job with passion and competency,” he said. “He was fortunate to be a part of great dressing rooms like that of the Treble, so he knows what it means to be an Interista.”

“For me, he comes into the job with the right experience.”

“He waited too long before going to Parma, in my opinion,” Materazzi then said.

“But then he proved his value there by doing very well to keep the team up.”

“Now he has a great opportunity. It’s right that he has that desire to bring home something big, both for his own career and for us Interisti.”