Inter Milan Head Coach Praises ‘Mature’ Victory Over Pisa & Claims ‘We Know How Important Lautaro Is’ | OneFootball

Inter Milan head coach Cristian Chivu praised his side’s maturity and control after a hard-fought 2-0 win away at Pisa, a result sealed by a decisive Lautaro Martinez brace.

The hosts gave the Nerazzurri a good game and it was not until the second half that Inter broke the deadlock.

Francesco Pio Esposito, who had just come on for Marcus Thuram, assisted the opener.

Speaking to DAZN after the match, Chivu emphasised the value of both the performance and the three points. “We reacted well. We were aware of how difficult this match would be,” he said.

“Pisa hadn’t lost in six games and hadn’t conceded at home since mid-September. We knew the risks, but we produced a performance of patience, organisation and maturity. We could have done better at times, but we’ll take the positives. This group deserves it, they show every day how much they want to challenge themselves and make this an important season.”

Pisa 0-2 Inter – Chivu Praies Lautaro Importance

BARI, ITALY – AUGUST 16: Lautaro Martinez of Inter competes for the ball with of Olympiacos FC during Pre-Season Friendly match between FC Internazionale and Olympiacos FC at Stadio San Nicola on August 16, 2025 in Bari, Italy. (Photo by Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images)

Chivu also addressed the tactical shift that saw Lautaro take up a different role, as well as the impact of substitutions.

“We know the importance of our players, especially our captain,” he stressed.

“There are voices questioning him, but we don’t, because we know how important he is and how much he cares. As for the changes, they’re there to help you. But a coach isn’t better or worse depending on substitutions or results. We have quality, I have 22 excellent players who belong in a top club like Inter.”

Asked whether resting Lautaro in previous matches had helped him today, Chivu defended his management decisions.

“A coach has to handle a lot of the chatter around the team and sometimes you can lose clarity,” he noted.

“When Lautaro is questioned, people exaggerate just to create a story. We know what he’s doing, how much he cares and how important he is for the group, like all the others who put their heart and soul into the team.”

Chivu also played down the attention on their emotional embrace at full time. “I hug him every morning, shame there isn’t a camera around,” he smiled.

“There’s no Big Brother filming us. That’s just who I am. We talk every day, and we hug every day. I’m happy for him, a striker lives for goals. He’s a winner and always wants to help the team.”

Finally, he responded to the fans chanting his name. “I know who I am and what I can give,” Chivu said.

“I put effort and passion into this job for a club as important as Inter. I’ve done a few things for this club, and being its coach is an honour. I’m aware of the responsibility I have toward the club, the fans who show their passion, and these wonderful players who do everything to honour our colours.”