Ex Real Madrid Striker Predicts Inter Milan Head Coach Is ‘Destined For A Bigger Team, In Premier League Or La Liga’ | OneFootball

Antonio Cassano believes Cristian Chivu and his work at Inter already points to a future beyond the Nerazzurri, with the former striker convinced the coach is destined for a bigger club.

Speaking live on Viva El Futbol, via FCInter1908, Cassano explained that Chivu’s leadership has never been in doubt, regardless of his relative inexperience on the bench.

“I know him: you can coach for 13 matches, but if you’re a leader, you’re a leader,” Cassano said.

Indeed, recalling how Chivu captained Ajax at just 20 years old and always had a clear footballing identity.

Cassano also pointed to Chivu’s football education during his playing days.

Cassano: Inter Coach Chivu Would Talk With Guardiola ‘All The Time’

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – MAY 17: Pep Guardiola, Manager of Manchester City, celebrates after their sides second goal during the UEFA Champions League semi-final second leg match between Manchester City FC and Real Madrid at Etihad Stadium on May 17, 2023 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)

At Roma, he recalled, Chivu would spend hours discussing the game with Pep Guardiola.

“They talked about football all the time,” Cassano said, stressing how that mentality shaped the coach Inter see today.

The former Italy international was blunt when assessing the context Chivu inherited. Coaching Inter, he argued, is a completely different challenge.

Cassano claimed the club had squandered multiple opportunities in recent years, including league titles and Champions League finals, before Chivu’s arrival.

While the system has remained similar, Cassano believes the ideas have changed. “He kept the same shape, but the idea is different,” he said. “He plays forward and presses.”

What stands out most, in Cassano’s view, is Chivu’s attitude. “He doesn’t complain, he doesn’t make excuses, and he wants to play football,” he said.

“You could listen to him for hours.”

Cassano’s conclusion was clear. While praising Chivu’s impact at Inter, he admitted it may only be temporary.

“Sadly for Inter,” he said, “I think he’s destined for an even bigger team, either in the Premier League or in Spain.”