Inter Milan Sporting Director: “Never Worried About Chivu” Jokes “Bastoni? Barcelona Have Our Phone Number” | OneFootball

Inter Milan sporting director Piero Ausilio praised the club’s decision to hand over the managerial reins to Cristian Chivu last summer.

During his latest interview, Ausilio discussed the appointment of the 45-year-old manager, as reported by FCInterNews.

Inter Milan took a gamble when they appointed Cristian Chivu as Simone Inzaghi’s replacement last summer.

Despite lacking experience in senior management, the Romanian coach has enjoyed a dream debut season at San Siro.

Indeed, Chivu has brought the Nerazzurri to the brink of their 21st Serie A title.

With only five games left to play, Chivu’s charges boast a substantial 12-point lead over reigning holders Napoli.

Furthermore, the 20-time Italian champions are potentially 90 minutes away from reaching the Coppa Italia final.

After a scoreless first-leg draw at Como, they’ll host Cesc Fabregas’ side in the return fixture at Giuseppe Meazza tomorrow.

Therefore, Chivu could become the first Nerazzurri boss to win a domestic double since Jose Mourinho in 2010.

Inter Milan Chief Piero Ausilio Backs Cristian Chivu Appointment

“Were you worried you’d made the wrong choice with Chivu after the first few matches? Honestly, no,” Ausilio said. “We knew we had to embark on a journey with a young coach whom we believed in wholeheartedly.

“It took time and patience – even from the fans – but we were absolutely convinced that this was the right path, and the results speak for Chivu.”

“This is a topic we haven’t addressed yet. After the match against Cagliari, our focus immediately shifted to Inter vs Como. That’s the mindset we have, from the coach to every player and the entire club.

“We still have goals to achieve, and until then, we prefer to postpone certain discussions about the future until a calmer time. The goal is to always be competitive.

“According to insiders and the media, it seemed like it would take more time.

“However, instead, we’ve been competitive from the start and are capable of bringing home something important.”

Asked why Inter faltered in the Champions League, Ausilio replied: “It happens; it’s not even normal for an Italian team to reach two Champions League finals in three seasons.

“Or like Atalanta, which won the Europa League. These are just phases. We have all the qualities and resources to get out of a situation that seems a bit difficult.

“However, I believe in Italy, in young Italian players, and in the project. From what I understand, there’s also an opportunity now to bring in something new, and I’m sure the right people will be chosen to carry out a great project.”

Inter Milan Sporting Director Piero Ausilio Comments on Palestra & Bastoni

Ausilio waxed lyrical about Atalanta-owned wingback Marco Palestra, who has emerged as one of Inter’s top targets.

“An excellent player, a prospect for many teams. But he’s with a strong club that has a great vision for its players and its project,” he added.

“And I’m sure he’ll be important for Atalanta for now; then we’ll see what the transfer market has to say about this player of great quality.”

Finally, he delivered his verdict on the uncertainty surrounding the future of under-fire center-back Alessandro Bastoni.

“He has a contract with Inter, and as of today, I don’t see any circumstances that suggest his future lies away from Inter,” he said. “I don’t know what they’re saying about him in Spain.

“However, I know we’re happy with him and what he’s given to Inter, and I’m sure he’ll give us a lot more. If anyone is interested in Bastoni, they know the phone numbers, so they should just call – they shouldn’t talk.”