Key Takeaways
- Cristian Chivu guides Inter Milan to their 21st Serie A crown with three matches still left to play
- The Romanian adds the Scudetto to his 2010 Treble triumph as a defender at the San Siro
- The Nerazzurri remain on course for a domestic Double ahead of the Coppa Italia final against Lazio
Cristian Chivu has written a new chapter in Inter Milan history by leading the club to the Serie A title in his first season as head coach. The Romanian sealed the Scudetto on Wednesday night after a 2-0 victory over Parma, with Marcus Thuram and Henrikh Mkhitaryan finding the net.
The triumph marks a remarkable turnaround for the Nerazzurri, who ended last season without silverware and saw Simone Inzaghi leave the dugout before the Club World Cup. Chivu arrived with limited experience in senior management following a brief spell at Parma, yet he has steered the side to the championship with games to spare.
The former defender was part of the iconic Inter squad that won the Treble in 2010. When journalists suggested this latest success secured his place in club folklore, Chivu responded with dry humour.
“I believe I was already in the history books,” he told DAZN Italia. “I achieved a few things as a player. However, today belongs to these lads. They showed tremendous character after facing heavy criticism last season.”
Inter have scored more than 100 goals this term, favouring an attacking approach over the defensive solidity traditionally associated with Italian champions. Chivu praised his squad for maintaining consistency throughout a demanding campaign.
“Football is a marathon,” he explained. “We suffered setbacks, including our Champions League exit against Bodo/Glimt and defeats in the derby. Yet the team always reacted with dignity and fought to the end.”
The coach briefly disappeared down the tunnel immediately after the final whistle. He later admitted he had stepped away for a cigarette, insisting his players deserved every bit of the spotlight.
Chivu also spoke about how a serious head injury during his playing career shaped his management philosophy. The incident forced him to wear a protective helmet for the rest of his time on the pitch.
“I lost my ego during that life and death moment,” he revealed. “I strive to be empathetic with my players. I do not concern myself with outside critics. I focus only on what those who love me think.”
Inter can complete a domestic Double when they face Lazio in the Coppa Italia final on May 13. Chivu remains modest about his contribution, crediting both his squad and previous coaches for the club’s success.
“The players win the titles,” he said. “I am still learning from great coaches like Antonio Conte, Max Allegri and Luciano Spalletti. We are simply trying to do our best for this magnificent club.”