Inter Milan considered Mourinho before appointing Chivu as head coach

After Inzaghi’s departure, Inter Milan launched a real managerial casting process. While Chivu eventually got the job, the club seriously considered José Mourinho

First Fabregas, then Vieira, and finally Chivu. But the managerial search at Inter Milan didn’t stop there. 

Simone Inzaghi’s exit triggered a full-blown casting process within the club. According to La Repubblica via Fcinter1908, Inter Milan even considered bringing José Mourinho back to the club.

From Mourinho dreams to Chivu’s reality: Inter Milan’s new direction takes shape

“Cristian Chivu is preparing to return home. After thirteen matches in charge of Parma—his entire Serie A coaching experience—the former treble-winning defender is ready to take over as Inter Milan’s first-team coach. 

The only thing that could have changed the club’s plans was a sensational and unexpected return of his mentor, José Mourinho,” reports Repubblica.

Mourinho was contacted through intermediaries and expressed willingness to return to Milan immediately. 

However, the hefty clauses binding him to Turkish club Fenerbahçe made the move difficult. Despite this, the mere consideration shows how highly Mourinho is still regarded by Inter Milan's leadership. 

The Portuguese coach, who delivered a historic treble in 2010, remains a beloved figure among fans and directors alike.

Though it ultimately didn’t materialize, the idea of a Mourinho comeback demonstrates Inter Milan’s desire to restore the club’s elite identity, both in terms of leadership and mentality. 

In the end, Chivu was chosen for his deep understanding of the club’s culture, his work with youth teams, and his potential as a long-term project leader.