Inter Milan head coach Cristian Chivu addressed the media during the pre-match press conference ahead of the Coppa Italia final against Lazio on May 13.
“Tomorrow’s match will be completely different from last Saturday’s game. They (Lazio) will undoubtedly find extra motivation. We must remain humble, but also fully aware that we have already won the Serie A title and reached the Coppa Italia final. We want to honor this glorious moment by playing at our best, and we will certainly be well prepared,” Chivu stated.
Regarding Marcus Thuram’s condition, Chivu confirmed: “He is improving and in good shape now. We still have another day to further assess his physical status.”
When asked if the team has become more mature in handling defeats, Chivu responded: “Checchi (a member of Inter’s coaching staff) mentioned that we handled losses very well, though it may not necessarily be ‘better’ than last season. The boys always hold their heads high and give their all in every match and every day. A season inevitably has its ups and downs. Knowing how to face adversity and humbly accepting that we are not perfect reflects their character. Our job is to ensure these moments don’t weigh too heavily on them or affect their attitude. Both the coaching staff and the players share a set of core values that have allowed us to achieve such a successful season.”
On the possibility of achieving a domestic double, Chivu emphasized: “We must never let this goal become an obsession. We have earned the right to enjoy such a successful season through our performances. Now, we simply need to maintain the clarity and positive attitude that have guided us so far. We need to stay calm and composed, with a smile on our faces. Yes, we want to step onto the pitch with determination, but also with the smile and passion that have defined our entire season.”
Asked about the importance of this season for his personal reputation, Chivu replied: “It makes no difference to me. I am genuinely happy for the players. I found a team that shares my mindset—a group of people eager to win. This desire didn’t just appear recently; it was there from the start, precisely from the famous interview Lautaro gave in the United States. That moment made me clearly understand what kind of personality he has, and he is not the only one in our squad. That is the true strength of this team. Everyone strives to understand what we represent—a club that has achieved extraordinary things, both in its long history and in the last five or six years. They have been highly competitive on all fronts, reached three European finals, and maintained top-level form. Here, we share victories and defeats together, always united, even in the darkest moments.”
Reflecting on his contribution to the team, Chivu said: “Ambition—a drive that comes from my own experience as a player for this club. I know the reality here well: the constant noise around the team and the inevitable negative narratives. I have tried to bring calmness and stability to the team on an interpersonal level, while also helping the players cope with the frustration caused by external pressure. Additionally, I strive to maintain the team’s high competitive standards. I am fighting alongside a group of sincere and genuine people who know how to stay together, enjoy each other’s company, and are willing to give everything to keep the team at the highest level.”