Andy Diouf, the unique weapon Inter Milan can shape under Chivu
The French midfielder is using the international break to settle at Inter Milan, with Chivu studying strengths and weaknesses of the ex-Lens player
The French midfielder is using the international break to settle at Inter Milan, with Chivu studying strengths and weaknesses of the ex-Lens player
The French midfielder has unique qualities within the Nerazzurri squad: strengths and weaknesses of the former Lens player.
Arriving at Inter Milan almost out of nowhere, Andy Diouf is using this international break to speed up his integration into the club, from getting to know the few teammates who stayed at Appiano Gentile to understanding Cristian Chivu’s tactical demands.
As explained by Corriere dello Sport via Fcinter1908, the former Lens man has technical and physical characteristics that could give him an important role this season:
“Discovering Diouf. The next-to-last new arrival on the Nerazzurri planet is among those not called up by their national teams, and so he is spending the break at Appiano Gentile. A good thing for Chivu. This way, his adaptation to the new team and new league can continue. At the same time, the Romanian coach can study more closely his qualities, strengths, but also the weaknesses to be addressed.”
Box-to-box qualities stand out, but Diouf still needs refinement to thrive at Inter Milan
“Fundamentally, he is a mezzala — though he can adapt to play in a two-man midfield — with pace, an imposing physique, and a left foot. Inter Milan had no midfielder with that profile. In Chivu’s ‘vertical’ ideas, his traits can fit well. Diouf thrives when it comes to turning defense into attack.
He can start from his own half and carry the ball all the way into the opponent’s area. In short, a classic box-to-box midfielder, though he still needs to refine his decision-making as he approaches goal.
His shot is powerful but not always accurate, and providing assists is not his main specialty either.”
“Still, at just 22, his process of growth and evolution is far from complete. He has time on his side to fill in the gaps.
For him, it will be crucial to follow Chivu’s guidance, as the coach has plenty of experience with young players and particularly appreciates strong, physical midfielders capable of breaking into the box.
Nerazzurri fans got a first taste of Diouf in the final minutes of the match against Torino. On that occasion, Chivu placed him in a more advanced role behind the strikers, where he looked uncomfortable. Nothing to worry about, considering it was his first appearance at San Siro.
Meanwhile, his work has continued, and today there will be another test in the friendly against Padova at Pinetina. The goal for the ex-Lens midfielder is clear: speed up the process and earn a stable spot in the rotations.”