Chivu takes responsibility: «I need to improve»

The change Cristian Chivu called for after Bruges concerns, first and foremost, the way he addresses the team. The Inter coach makes that clear on Sky Sport ahead of Champions League matchday three: he wants to explain himself better and find ways to make the squad’s identity effective on the pitch. After defeats to Real Madrid and Club Brugge, with the Nerazzurri still without a point, the first area he identifies for improvement is therefore his own work.

Cristian Chivu, interview with Sky Sport «I was talking about myself, about how I approach the lads, how I say certain things, how I explain myself better. I was referring to myself, not to anything else».

At his press conference at the Inter Training Center, the coach reiterates that he does not want to blame the players for what is going wrong. He points out that the squad have handled pressure for years and remain competitive. The coach bears responsibility first, but the response he demands on the pitch involves everyone: recognising the importance of the match, responding to setbacks and continuing to enjoy playing even when the game gets difficult.

Cristian Chivu, press conference «When things aren’t going well, I never point the finger at the players. The coach is the first person to blame. I need to improve first and foremost».

The theme of identity also returns in his account of half-time at Bologna: Chivu refuses to attribute the second-half turnaround solely to his intervention and stresses the ability to adapt to the game. He describes his bond with his players as that of a father with his children, even when he gets angry. As for the Champions League, he calls it a dream and keeps that ambition separate from the immediate objective.

«But right now, what matters is winning tomorrow. That is the only priority».

The match is scheduled for Wednesday 21 October at 21:00 CEST at San Siro. Shakhtar arrive unbeaten in this season’s Champions League with four points, as UEFA notes: a start that lends weight to the coach’s caution, with Chivu convinced he will face opponents ready to take the initiative away from home too. He wants determination and the right attitude from Inter as they seek their first European win of the season.