Inter Milan have rolled the dice on Cristian Chivu, promoting the former Romania defender to head coach just weeks after Simone Inzaghi's departure. With a contract running until June 30, 2027, Chivu steps into one of Europe's most storied clubs at a critical moment.
The 44-year-old, who spent six seasons and 169 matches with Inter as a player – winning three Serie A titles and the 2010 Champions League – takes the reins after guiding Parma to safety in his first senior coaching post. His one-season stint in Emilia-Romagna earned him praise for resilience and tactical acumen.
Inter confirmed Chivu will earn around €2.5 million per season, marking a significant investment in fresh leadership. The appointment follows a bitter Champions League final loss to Paris Saint-Germain and Inzaghi's decision to join Al Hilal in the Saudi Pro League.
Chivu's debut at the helm arrives at the Club World Cup in Pasadena, California, where Inter face Mexican side Monterrey at the Rose Bowl. The match will test how quickly the novice coach can unite a squad still reeling from a 5-0 defeat in Munich.
For a club chasing redemption after falling short of a historic treble, Chivu's deep ties with Inter and recent coaching heroics in Serie B could inject new momentum. His journey from youth team coach to the San Siro dugout symbolizes Inter's bet on long-term vision over experience.
As global fans tune in, all eyes will be on Chivu's tactical blueprint and how he balances high expectations with the weight of his own legacy. The gamble could redefine Inter's trajectory – or serve as a cautionary tale in elite football.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
