Italian Media Claim Inter Milan Coach Chivu Following In The Footsteps Of Legendary Treble-Winning Boss Mourinho | OneFootball

Cristian Chivu is increasingly walking in the footsteps of his former manager José Mourinho at Inter Milan, and Gazzetta dello Sport have drawn a compelling parallel between the two coaches as the Romanian’s communication style grows more combative with each passing week.

According to Gazzetta, via FCInterNews, Chivu’s recent press conference declaration of “I am not a fool” bore a striking resemblance to Mourinho’s famous “I am not a fool” equivalent at his very first Inter press conference in 2008.

Indeed, the similarities have been building for some time.

Chivu initially appeared to want a different approach, quieter, less confrontational.

However, as the pressure has mounted and the controversies have multiplied, he has adapted, defending his players and counter-attacking critics with an intensity that echoes the Special One.

Mourinho Privately Congratulates Chivu As Scudetto Dream Mirrors Inter Milan 2010 Success

Furthermore, another Chivu phrase, “if someone does not like what I say, while maintaining consistency, that is not my problem,” closely mirrors one of Mourinho’s own trademark responses.

Therefore, the stylistic overlap is unmistakable.

Meanwhile, Gazzetta report that Mourinho himself has already privately congratulated his former player, having never doubted he would succeed as a manager.

Indeed, if Chivu wins the Scudetto in his debut season, as Mourinho did in 2009-10, it would represent the ultimate tribute to the man who shaped him as both a player and, it seems, a coach.