Cristian Chivu acknowledged that Inter Milan faced “potential trouble” after squandering opportunities in their match against Cagliari, while also highlighting the contributions of John Stones and Curtis Jones to the squad.
Despite the struggle, the Nerazzurri continued their flawless record at the start of the Serie A season, having found it much tougher compared to their earlier 4-1 win against Monza.
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Hakan Calhanoglu’s decisive strike from outside the box finally broke the deadlock, showcasing precision over power, securing all three points from Sardinia.
Even with an impressive tally of 31 shots—including seven on target and an expected goals (xG) of 3.9—the team allowed Cagliari to nearly snatch an equalizer in the dying moments.
Chivu Observes Inter’s Play
MILAN, ITALY – AUGUST 22: Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of Inter Milan observes the action prior to the Serie A match against AC Monza at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on August 22, 2026. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)
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“These are classic games where failing to finish off the opponent can lead to problems,” Chivu stated during an interview with Sky Sport Italia.
“We became a bit chaotic and stretched in the second half, and panicked unnecessarily. We generated numerous chances, so if there’s any regret, it’s that we didn’t capitalize on more of those opportunities.”
“It’s not ideal to endure such tension late in the match, but given our current fitness levels and the players returning from the World Cup, we leave Sardinia with three points and increased match fitness. Marcus Thuram got 30 minutes, Jones made his debut, and Stones is working on his match fitness too.”
“The only way to improve fitness levels is through playing, and while it takes time, we are satisfied with the result.”
BOLOGNA, ITALY – MAY 23: Cristian Chivu, head coach of Inter Milan, during the Serie A match against Bologna FC at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on May 23, 2026. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
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Chivu made three changes to the starting lineup from the previous week’s win against Monza, bringing in Benjamin Pavard, Luis Henrique, and Petar Sucic, while Curtis Jones made his debut as a substitute.
“I had to adjust Pavard to play as a wing-back and brought Bisseck into the center due to some issues I noticed, but he responded well with a crucial block. I would have preferred to maintain better control in the closing stages, similar to the strong performance in the first half and parts of the second half, but in tense moments, a coach must react accordingly.”
“Juve and Roma struggled here last season, so Cagliari poses a challenge for everyone, and it has been no easy task for us either.”
MILAN, ITALY – AUGUST 22: John Stones of Inter Milan enters the match as a substitute while Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of Inter Milan, observes during their Serie A clash against AC Monza on August 22, 2026. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)
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Stones and Jones were brought in to inject some experience into the lineup, while Djed Spence continues to await his debut following his transfer from Tottenham Hotspur.
“They bring quality and experience from top clubs like Manchester City and Liverpool, where playing under pressure is second nature for them. They need to regain their fitness, and John particularly needs more confidence to adapt to our style, but I have no complaints regarding their attitude. They bring energy and enthusiasm to the team, and we’re glad to have them.”
It appears that Inter’s transfer strategy focused more on adding character than merely traits to the team.
TURIN, ITALY – APRIL 26: Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of Inter Milan, instructs his team during the Serie A match against Torino FC at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on April 26, 2026. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
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“We had to make replacements after losing five players,” Chivu remarked.
“When we lost Palestra and Khalaili, it became essential to address our needs. Diouf showed signs of improvement in that position, prompting us to seek a defensive profile capable of playing on the right or left.”
“In midfield, we had been considering Curtis Jones for some time due to his intensity, drive, and composure on the ball. We have a talented group of midfielders, and my role is to integrate them effectively while keeping everyone satisfied. This is the most challenging aspect of coaching a competitive squad.”
“For now, it’s crucial to get our players fit and ensure they come in smiling every Monday, which is no small feat.”
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Inter’s Champions League campaign will kick off with an away match against Jose Mourinho’s Real Madrid at the iconic Bernabeu, a stadium where Chivu played during his Treble-winning season in 2010. What were his thoughts on this matchup?
“I thought about Napoli, knowing I have to face those two teams back-to-back. It’s the Champions League, and we aim to be competitive while also gauging how many points are needed to avoid playoffs,” Chivu concluded with a smile.