Cristian Chivu’s addition to Inter Milan as head coach marked an essential turning point following the club’s disappointing loss to PSG in the Champions League final.
Milan decided to appoint Chivu not long after losing 5-0, which raised eyebrows due to his limited previous experience with only 13 Serie A games coached. However, the team has risen to the top of Serie A under his guidance, displaying a four-point lead over their rivals.
Chivu has introduced several tactical revisions, significantly reducing substitutions during matches while fostering a more direct attacking style.
Key Changes Implemented
- Fewer Substitutions: Players have more minutes on the field, contributing to consistent performance and fitness, as highlighted by Federico Dimarco, who explained that more play improves fitness.
- More Vertical Play: Inter now emphasizes quicker ball movements toward forwards instead of relying extensively on defensive plays. This strategy has resulted in increased effectiveness in their attacks.
With the recent season pivot from a passive game to a dynamic one, data reveals Inter has increased passes to their strikers while decreasing those in their defensive half.
As evidenced by Chivu’s successful navigation through the current season, Inter’s pursuit for trophies comes at a critical juncture, following previous disappointments in the Champions League.
Viewing Details
- Date: January 28, 2026
- Kick-off: 3 p.m. ET
- Location: Signal Iduna Park, Dortmund
- Live Stream: Paramount+
- Odds: BVB +190; Draw +248; Inter +136
This article showcases Chivu’s growing influence on the team and emphasizes the excitement surrounding their title defense.
