Inter Milan Legend & Vice-President Describes Cristian Chivu As ‘Brother To The Treble-Winning Team’ & Claims Italy Defender Is ‘Extraordinary’ | OneFootball

Javier Zanetti has delivered a warm and revealing assessment of Cristian Chivu’s debut season at Inter Milan, describing the head coach as a brother of the Treble-winning squad and insisting his sense of belonging to the club is being transmitted directly to his players.

The Inter vice-president spoke to FCInter1908, at the 12th edition of the “In Campo per un Sorriso – Trofeo PUPI” event in Milan, and touched on the title race, the Coppa Italia and Alessandro Bastoni’s difficult season.

On the mood within the club as Inter close in on the Scudetto, Zanetti was measured.

“We are confident. I believe Cristian and the players are doing an extraordinary job. The last step remains and we are aware we are in a good position.”

On Chivu’s qualities as a manager and psychologist, his answer was deeply personal.

“For me he is a brother of the Treble squad and I am incredibly happy. His intelligence and passion, his sense of belonging to our colours, it is the best thing there is. And he is transmitting that to the players, who are following him.”

Zanetti Backs Bastoni & Chivu After Rollercoaster Inter Season

When asked what has given Inter an extra edge over their rivals this season, Zanetti kept his answer simple.

“The work, every single week. The certainty of following the coach, with everyone making themselves available.”

On Bastoni, and everything the Italy defender has endured this season, Zanetti was brief but powerful.

“He is an extraordinary boy and that is enough for me. We know him, we know his human values and that is the most important thing for us.”

On the prospect of the double, a feat Inter have achieved only once in their history, Zanetti was ambitious but calm.

“We have the ambition to be competitive, as I said. We have a great opportunity and face a great team in Como who play good football. It depends on us. We hope to reach the Coppa Italia final and then we will see what comes.”

On when the flags come out of the wardrobe, the Inter legend smiled.

“Not yet, we are calm and humble as our DNA demands. We think first about the Coppa Italia, then Torino.”