Juventus vs Inter – Cristian Chivu Shuts Down Fabio Capello’s Calhanoglu Criticism; Stresses Importance Of Derby Result | OneFootball

Inter Milan head coach Cristian Chivu has described Hakan Calhanoglu as ‘motivated’ and ‘ready to help’ after the Turkish international attracted criticism from Fabio Capello, ahead of the Nerazzurri’s Derby d’Italia against Juventus.

Speaking at his press conference ahead of Inter’s Derby d’Italia clash against Juventus on Saturday evening, Chivu discussed preparations for the game, the summer transfer window and what he expects from his side.

With quotes via FcInterNews, Chivu praised his team’s efforts in training.

“The team worked well, especially the players who were here with us,” Chivu said, “Then the others were with their national teams, which gives them something mentally and energy-wise.”

Chivu emphasised that integrating the squad as a whole was crucial.

“Today is my first day with the group complete,” he added, “The important thing is that everyone is well and ready to play the match.

Inter Coach Chivu on Plan to Challenge Juventus

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON – JUNE 21: Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of FC Internazionale Milano, looks on during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 group E match between FC Internazionale Milano and Urawa Red Diamonds at Lumen Field on June 21, 2025 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)

The Inter coach believes that the match is a test of mental toughness, rather than just skill.

“We are only in the third match day and the beauty of football is sometimes you have to play these games,” Chivu said, “You need the right calmness and mentality to understand the moments of the game.”

After the loss to Udinese, Chivu focused on refining confidence and reinforcing strengths.

“I didn’t talk about small flaws but about certainties,” he said, “The team knows how to do certain things and I only want to remove minor issues.”

New arrival Manuel Akanji will be available to start against Juventus and Chivu underlined the importance of the Swiss international.

“I don’t think it matters how the signing happened but that he arrived,” the coach claimed, “Akanji is an important player with international quality and he adds value to our group.”

Calhanoglu Vital As Chivu Prepares Inter For Juventus Test

MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 11: Hakan Calhanoglu of FC Internazionale celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the Round of 16 Second Leg match between FC Internazionale Milano and Feyenoord at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on March 11, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Former Milan and England coach Fabio Capello was critical of Hakan Calhanoglu in his column for the Gazzetta dello Sport today.

The Italian former coach said that the Turkish international was in dire need of recovering his mentality.

However, Chivu had a different take.

“What I have seen in the last month is a player who is always motivated, despite everyone forgetting he was sidelined for two months through injury.

“He had a summer that was not entirely happy but he chose to stay with us and is ready to help.”

Chivu stressed that the squad must maintain focus and energy throughout the season.

“We are aware of the season’s length, it is a marathon of 38 match days,” he said, “When things don’t go well, we need to roll up our sleeves and keep moving forward with courage.”

The coach expects the team to play proactively and dominate key moments against Juventus.

“Our identity remains the same and we must find solutions to withstand our opponent’s challenges,” Chivu said, “Our goal is always to control the match and make the opponent uncomfortable.”

He also underlined the importance of motivation and team spirit.

“It is a continuous process, once passion is found, it can be easily lost,” he said.

“Motivation makes the difference every day for player and staff alike.”

Chivu also confirmed that younger players such as Yann Bisseck remain integral to the squad.

“Managing a group is the hardest part for a coach because you need everyone motivated.”

“Bisseck was criticised because its easy to judge and form opinions about a player who has probably never had the chance to be consistent.

“Let’s not forget he is a young guy. He has made mistakes and will continue to do so.

“But he was chosen because we need him.”

Chivu on Inter Squad Depth and Lessons From Parma

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)

The Nerazzurri approach the Derby d’Italia with confidence; key players are rested and ready for the fixture.

Chivu appeared satisfied with his summer transfer window, claiming “My 25 players are the best, I wouldn’t look elsewhere.

“I’m incredibly happy to work with such a motivated group of guys. We’ve found a bit of energy and determination and the young players help raise the bar in training.”

A reporter asked Chivu if he had watched back his Parma side’s 1-0 win over Juventus last season in preparation.

“To be consistent, I shouldn’t make comparisons.

“Tudor had just arrived and I was coaching Parma. Igor is doing a great job, they have two wins this year.

“They had a good transfer window for the coach’s ideas, they have Bremer back, who gives them so much.

“The expectations for our play and results are very high…

“But that does not mean we should have extra pressure that affects our performance.

“I rely on what we know how to do and on the pride of champions. Mentality matters more than any tactical question.”

Finally, a reporter asked Chivu how excited he would be about the match as a player.

“You ask me this question every Sunday [laughs, ed]

“I take it calmly because I know it would be a waste of energy to get excited.

“Both as a player and as a coach, I’m aware of what I am doing.

“Anything else is a waste of energy that doesn’t do any good. If I start seeing ghosts, I’d cause harm. Now I rest more than I did as a player because I felt responsible for my teammates.”