Cristian Chivu shapes a more tactically flexible Inter Milan

The Romanian coach is building an Inter Milan side capable of shifting formations with ease, focusing on high-intensity, vertical football with surprise in attack

Cristian Chivu is shaping a more tactically flexible Inter Milan compared to the past. The tried-and-tested 3-5-2 will remain a safe option, but the Romanian coach is also working on alternative formations such as the 3-4-2-1 and 3-4-1-2. 

The goal is to implement a style of football that is intense, vertical, and unpredictable in the final third.

“The coach is working on an Inter Milan side that is more tactically versatile than in previous seasons. Heavy training loads and the idea of an intense, vertical, fast-paced game with as much unpredictability as possible are central to his vision.

New signings like Lookman and Bonny reflect Inter Milan’s tactical evolution

It’s within this framework that Inter Milan’s transfer moves should be understood, particularly the pursuit of a different kind of forward—such as Ademola Lookman—alongside the signing of Ange-Yoan Bonny.

In fact, the transfer campaign overseen by Marotta and Ausilio has been somewhat underrated, especially in attack. 

Here, Francesco Pio Esposito also offers multiple options in enemy territory. The 20 year-old giant (191 centimeters) from Castellammare di Stabia is already on the radar of Italy’s national team coach, Gattuso.

On the wings, the necessary backup for Dumfries has arrived in the form of Luis Henrique, while in central midfield, 21 year-old Croatian talent Petar Sucic has already made a positive impression.

Still, something may be missing in the middle of the pitch, especially considering Chivu seems intent on playing with two central midfielders ahead of the defense. That could lead to a significant sacrifice to make room for a player with strength, presence, and height—a profile largely ignored during the Simone Inzaghi era.

Defensive reinforcements are less urgent: the current squad still offers strong guarantees, allowing Inter Milan to negotiate calmly over targets like Leoni or De Winter.”

Source: Fcinter1908