Chivu’s debut on the Inter Milan bench: “No rules, only time”

The Romanian coach faces his first Serie A match with Inter Milan, fully aware of expectations and the weight of the job

The words of the Nerazzurri coach on the eve of Inter Milan–Torino revealed above all a clear awareness: “There is no rule, there is only time”, said Cristian Chivu in the press conference before his first Serie A match on the Inter Milan bench.

The discussion revolved around modern football, abroad and in Italy. And naturally, it looked ahead to today: “There is no rule, there are rules, principles, and a certain sensitivity from the coach. It is an art, a craft where you need a bit of everything to do it. 

Someone may say I’m inexperienced, but life experience makes me see football differently. Here we are somewhat slaves to the result, so there is no time to carry forward certain ideas. There is no rule, there is time, and the maturity of a club, of the coach, and of the players. 

At Inter Milan, time does not exist and we must start strong right from today. Expectations are high and the goal is always to improve, to go all the way.”

This morning in Appiano Gentile, groups of fans were scattered behind the barriers waiting to greet the players, who after the morning training session did not stop. 

The atmosphere was that of a new beginning, like the first day of school. Even if for Chivu, it is not exactly the same. 

He forged his career at Inter Milan, first as a player and later as a coach in the youth sector. The air he breathes is that of home, even though the stakes are now different. And he seems perfectly aware of it.

A Team still a work in progress, but hungry to compete

So how does Inter Milan arrive at the first match of this Serie A season? Ready to begin. Eager to take the pitch. Confident in the work done, because, as Chivu said, “Work never lies. We are still a work in progress, we want to improve in everything.”

Preparation was short and intense; details will—as always—make the difference. The team must be able to capitalize on key moments of the season, Chivu continued. 

He knows very well how football works. During the unforgettable treble season, at Kiev Inter Milan could have been out of everything. Achievements depend also on how you handle moments like that: reacting to difficulties, being ready in the toughest situations.

Inevitably, the transfer market came up on August 25. Chivu highlighted how Inter Milan pursued a targeted, coherent strategy. 

He mentioned Lookman, wanted but not signed due to decisions beyond the club’s control. He also replied to Lele Oriali (“a friend”), calmly handing Napoli the favorite’s badge. Honors and burdens belong to those who won the Scudetto, as tradition dictates, echoed also by Max Allegri.

Chivu knows expectations at Inter Milan are always high (“time does not exist here”). He is aware that rules do not apply: the pitch will deliver the first answers on the face of his team this season. 

A beautiful challenge for someone proud to sit on this bench. And if there is one certainty, it is that Cristian Chivu truly is. Very much so.

Source: Fcinter1908