Cristian Chivu begins his Inter Milan coaching era at La Pinetina

The former defender steps in as Inter Milan head coach, preparing for his debut match within a week

Cristian Chivu’s new journey as Inter Milan’s head coach has begun with a training session at La Pinetina. 

The former Nerazzurri defender has already embraced his new role in a high-pressure context, with his official debut on the bench set to take place in less than a week.

“Asking him to manage official games in just a few days feels almost unfair,” noted Il Giornale via Fcinter1908.it. “Meanwhile, Marotta seems increasingly convinced of the choice—though admittedly forced by events in his own way."

Chivu bid farewell to Parma and its fans through a social media message, as well as to his assistant Gagliardi and goalkeeping coach Pavarini, who won’t be joining him in Milan. By his side instead is Angelo Palombo, former Sampdoria captain.

Staff changes, challenges ahead, and the trip to Los Angeles

The important role of assistant coach remains undecided. The idea of bringing in Martusciello—long-time deputy to Sarri—was quickly ruled out. 

Walter Samuel was also approached, but he chose to stay on as Lionel Scaloni’s main assistant for the Argentine national team. The most recent contact has been with Luca Gotti.

Fitness coach Stefano Rapetti, who was part of Inter’s 2010 treble-winning staff, will be in charge of athletic preparation.

Chivu will meet most of the team for the first time this morning at the airport before departing for Los Angeles. 

Yesterday at Appiano Gentile, apart from a few Primavera players, only Darmian, Acerbi, Mkhitaryan, Carboni, and Seba Esposito trained.

Calhanoglu and Bisseck, both injured during the Monaco final, trained separately and are ruled out for the Club World Cup opener against Monterrey, scheduled for 3 a.m. on June 18 at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena—the same stadium that hosted the 1994 World Cup final between Italy and Brazil.