Inter Milan Treble Hero Reveals ‘Chivu Was Already Like A Coach As A Player’ – Adds ‘Juventus Vs Inter Already Decisive’ & ‘Napoli Serie A Title Favourites’ | OneFootball

Former Inter Milan defender Maicon says that Cristian Chivu was “already like a coach” when he was a player.

The Brazilian spoke to Tuttosport, via FCInterNews. He also predicted that the Derby d’Italia against Juventus will be “decisive” and named Napoli as Serie A title favourites.

Cristian Chivu is three months and six matches into his Inter Milan coaching career.

The Romanian had a highly successful playing career with the Nerazzurri. He spent six years at the club, and was a key player in the European Treble win during the 2009-10 season.

Furthermore, Chivu also did well coaching Inter at several youth team levels.

However, taking charge of the first team was always going to present a different kind of challenge for Chivu.

The Club World Cup gave mixed signals. Inter had a solid enough group stage, but exited the tournament early in the knockout rounds against Fluminense.

And then, the start of Chivu’s first Serie A season at the helm has been similar.

Inter began the league campaign with a bang, demolishing Torino 5-0.

However, in Chivu’s second Serie A match in charge, Inter squandered an early lead to lose 1-2 against Udinese.

Maicon: “Cristian Chivu Was Already Like A Coach When He Played For Inter”

MONZA, ITALY – AUGUST 12: FC Internazionale coach Cristian Chivu looks on before the Pre-season Friendly match between AC Monza and FC Internazionale at U-Power Stadium on August 12, 2025 in Monza, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Maicon spent several seasons playing alongside Chivu for Inter. He commented that “when he was playing, Cristian was already like a coach on the pitch.”

“He and Cambiasso led us through matches,” the Brazilian explained.

“They dictated our movements. They always paid close attention to every tactical aspect.”

“I was sure that Chivu would end up having a coaching career,” Maicon said.

“He’s always very well-prepared.”

As far as Chivu handling the pressure, Maicon replied “He definitely can.”

“He’s a great gentleman,” the former Inter defender said of his one-time teammate. “An exceptional guy, and someone who knows how to command respect.”

Then, Maicon stated that “The match between Juve and Inter will already be really important.”

“The Bianconeri have started well,” he continued. “And it’s always tough for them.”

“Inter slipped up against Udinese,” Maicon went on. “And they have to send a strong message to the rest of the league.”

As far as a title favourite, Maicon commented that “I’d say Napoli, even if Inter still have the strongest squad.”

The Brazilian also praised current Inter wingback Denzel Dumfries. “He’s a great player and he has some of my characteristics,” he said. “He’s decisive down the flank.”