Inter Milan Vs Roma – Chivu Defends Bastoni After Italy Disaster & Hits Out At Media: ‘You Only Complain When Things Go In Our Favor’ | OneFootball

Cristian Chivu delivered one of his most impassioned and personal press conferences of the season on Saturday, using his pre-match address ahead of Sunday’s Easter clash with Roma to mount a fierce and heartfelt defence of Alessandro Bastoni, a player he described as the embodiment of everything this Inter squad stands for.

The Inter head coach opened by setting the broader context of the squad’s mood after a turbulent international break. The press conference was reported via FcInterNews,

The Italy players return carrying the pain of World Cup elimination, while others like Calhanoglu bring the joy of qualification with Turkey.

Chivu’s job has been to channel all of those emotions into a singular focus, eight games, a Scudetto still to win.

“The squad arrives after the break,” he began. “Those who stayed enjoyed some rest and then good training loads.

“Those who went with their national teams came back conscious of the fact that a very demanding finish awaits us. We must be ready, competitive and at our best.”

While previewing the Roma game, the conversation quickly turned to Bastoni, and the response from Chivu was as direct and as warm as any he has given about an Inter player this season.

The defender left for Italy’s camp on crutches and played in the Bosnia play-off final just days later. That act of courage struck Chivu deeply.

“I am dealing with great champions, especially from a human point of view. They have always shown that by getting back up after tasting bitterness.

“They have learned that being part of a group and playing this sport means sometimes you fall short.

“However, what counts is character, reaction and what you do for your teammates, for the respect for the club you represent and for the love of the fans.

“We know this. Disappointments are part of the game. I am not worried because in these eight months they have shown me we are dealing with men with values and certainties.”

Inter Vs Roma – Chivu Defends Bastoni After Italy Drama

On Bastoni specifically, Chivu refused to hold back.

“In football, recognition is scarce. We always point the finger and look for something that has nothing to do with the human values of this squad and of Alessandro,” he said firmly.

“He put his face on the line and so did the others, they have learned from the past and they will be ready to do what they must do in the final part of the season.”

He returned to Bastoni‘s act of courage with evident pride.

“I left him on crutches and then found him on the pitch with the national team three days later. These players always put their face on the line, they accept every criticism despite moments of difficulty.”

He paused before continuing. “In football what counts is the respect of your teammates, the work and who you are as a human being.

“He is sorry about what happened but is happy to have received the support of his teammates, both with Italy and at Inter.

“Bastoni showed up with what he had to represent a country and fulfil his dream and the dream of Italians. Despite the physical condition he was in, he made himself available.

“From a man of sport who understands these dynamics and knows what ten days on crutches means, that matters enormously. He put his face on the line and took responsibility.

“What counts then is what you receive, the love and esteem of your teammates, who know that despite not being in optimal condition you showed up.”

Chivu Glad Of Lautaro Return

On Lautaro’s return and the broader narrative around Inter’s recent form, Chivu pushed back against the prevailing tone of alarm.

“I talk about 18 games, fourteen wins, three draws and one defeat. A very good pace. Certain dramas over a draw only happen with Inter and not with others.”

He acknowledged wanting more but refused to catastrophise.

“We take what we have merited so far, while we are first we have maintained our expectations. Every player is indispensable, Lautaro as much as Luis Henrique or Diouf.

“Everyone knows the contribution they must give and how important it is to have everyone available but also mentally and physically ready.”

On Roma, Chivu was respectful and alert. “We know the strength of this group and their coach who in a short time has imposed his identity beyond all expectations.

“And so must find conviction and intensity, accept what Roma propose on the pitch because it is never simple to face Gasperini’s teams. You need courage and the right ambition to see a complicated game through.”

When asked if Inter were in crisis, Chivu made his feelings abundantly clear.

”Strange atmosphere around Inter? You have to explain that to me. I see, feel, and hear things that have nothing to do with the values ​​of sport.

“I’ve never seen the media pillorying after Inter-Juve anywhere else. If the incidents favor Inter, the media pillorying begins. You put Inter in the square and throw stones.

“If they’re against Inter, everyone stays quiet. So I’ll ask you the question.”