Former Brazil & Inter Milan Icon ‘Surprised’ By Chivu & Expects Italy Starlet To ‘Do Very Well’ | OneFootball

Former Inter Milan striker Adriano has spoken warmly about the club’s current direction under Cristian Chivu, admitting he did not expect his former teammate to take on such a prominent role so soon.

The Brazilian icon is in Italy for the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics events and took the opportunity to reconnect with familiar faces.

During an exclusive interview with Italian journalist Gianluca Rossi on his YouTube channel, via FCInterNews, Adriano reflected on his enduring bond with both the country and the Nerazzurri.

“I’m very happy to return to Italy and see old friends, I’m happy to be part of this celebration,” Adriano said. “Italy and Inter are in my heart, it’s always a pleasure to come back. We hope we can win.”

Adriano ‘Surprised’ By Chivu At Inter & Praises Youngster Pio Esposito

MILAN, ITALY – JANUARY 23: Francesco Pio Esposito of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates scoring his team’s third goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Pisa SC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on January 23, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Turning to Chivu, who shared a dressing room with him during their time at Inter, Adriano added.

“He’s been a surprise. We played together and he was always a good person. It’s nice to see that he’s taking Inter forward.”

The former striker also had words of encouragement for one of the club’s brightest young talents, Francesco Pio Esposito, who has been earning increasing trust at senior level.

“He can do very well and I hope he can continue like this,” Adriano said, backing the Italy youth international to make the most of his opportunities in the first team.