Cristian Chivu Hails Inter Milan Starlet & Captain As ‘Great Pairing’ Ahead Of Genoa Test | OneFootball

Cristian Chivu has spoken positively about Inter Milan’s attacking setup ahead of the Serie A clash with Genoa, highlighting the chemistry between captain Lautaro Martinez and young striker Pio Esposito while underlining the physical and tactical demands of the match at the Stadio Ferraris.

Speaking to DAZN in the pre-match build-up, the Inter head coach confirmed his satisfaction with the attacking duo selected to lead the line.

“Lautaro with Pio make a great pairing,” Chivu said, with quotes via FCInterNews.

“Today we will have to put intensity and physicality on the pitch. We have to be ready and adapt to what the game gives us.”

Chivu was quick to stress that the challenge would extend well beyond Inter’s own attacking choices, pointing to Genoa’s growth under Daniele De Rossi.

“Genoa have quality in possession, character and good intensity,” he explained.

Indeed, warning his side against underestimating an opponent in strong form on home soil.

Genoa Vs Inter- Chivu Outlines Selection Decisions And Hails ‘Great Pairing’ Of Lautaro & Pio Esposito

MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 30: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale celebrates after scoring their team’s first goal during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD2 match between FC Internazionale Milano and SK Slavia Praha at Stadio San Siro on September 30, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

On his selection decisions, the Romanian coach outlined the balance he seeks across the pitch, particularly in defence and midfield.

“I make many evaluations,” Chivu noted. “Starting from the balance on the right side, the speed of the central defender and the individual qualities in my choices.”

Despite the absence of Hakan Calhanoglu, Chivu expressed confidence in the alternatives at his disposal. “In midfield we have a lot of quality,” he said.

“Calhanoglu is Calhanoglu, but those who have replaced him have always done well.”

The Inter coach also dismissed the idea that external results should influence his team’s mindset, even after Napoli’s defeat and Milan’s draw earlier in the weekend.

“The motivation is always there,” Chivu insisted. “We are aware of the importance of this match. We don’t need to look at what others are doing.”

Finally, Chivu addressed his relationship with Genoa coach De Rossi, revealing there had been no recent contact.

“I haven’t spoken to him this week,” he said. “We spoke when he took the job as head coach.”