Cristian Chivu asserted that Inter is “ready to fight” following their recent win away at Atalanta, but he refrained from engaging in further controversy, stating, “I am not concerned with what Antonio Conte has to say.”
The Nerazzurri faced mounting pressure after a disappointing outing at the Supercoppa Italiana in Riyadh, where they were eliminated by Bologna in the semi-finals after a penalty shootout.
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The match in Bergamo saw Inter have a goal ruled out for offside before Lautaro Martinez capitalized on a mistake by Berat Djimsiti, intercepting a pass from substitute Francesco Pio Esposito.
Notably, Esposito had just come on for Marcus Thuram moments earlier and made an immediate impact.
Chivu pleased with Inter’s performance as they conclude 2025
BERGAMO, ITALY – DECEMBER 28: FC Internazionale coach Cristian Chivu observes during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and FC Internazionale at New Balance Arena on December 28, 2025. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“I was pleased with Marcus’ performance today; he worked tirelessly and put pressure on their defense with his movements. However, he appeared to be tiring, so I brought on Pio,” Chivu mentioned to DAZN Italia.
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“Pio came on with the right mindset, intercepted the ball, and set Lautaro through on goal. I’m proud of the entire team for their effort today—they sought to control the game in the first half, although Atalanta adjusted their strategy after halftime.”
“We’re satisfied with the outcome because while it may not be the only priority, it is certainly significant.”
Pio Esposito was the only additional striker available, as Ange-Yoan Bonny was sidelined for the match due to a sprained ankle.
“All of our players work hard, contributing efforts when called upon. It’s great to have four excellent strikers, all of whom are scoring and collaborating effectively,” Chivu remarked.
BERGAMO, ITALY – DECEMBER 28: Piotr Zielinski of FC Internazionale in action during the Serie A match against Atalanta BC at New Balance Arena on December 28, 2025. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
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This victory means Inter finishes 2025 at the top of the Serie A standings, with their captain scoring in four consecutive league matches. Given their illustrious history, can their position at the summit be taken for granted?
“In football, nothing should be assumed. Consistent hard work and competitive spirit are essential on the pitch. However, we are still not halfway through the season, and a long journey lies ahead, one that may require us to stand up against hurdles and those who take our success lightly,” he said.
“Ultimately, our performance on the pitch speaks volumes. We are committed to giving our best, responding to our opponents, and maintaining our resilience. We are prepared to fight even harder.”
BERGAMO, ITALY – DECEMBER 28: Piotr Zielinski of FC Internazionale in action during the Serie A match against Atalanta BC at New Balance Arena on December 28, 2025. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
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Chivu also addressed the remarks made by Napoli’s coach Conte, who stated again that Inter, Juventus, and AC Milan are the top contenders for the Scudetto. What was Chivu’s reaction?
“I’m not interested in what Conte has to say,” he responded with indifference.
When asked about the word of the year for 2025 being ‘faith’, Chivu was prompted to share what he hopes the word for 2026 would be to capture Inter’s essence.
“I haven’t completed 2025 yet. Give me four days, and I might respond by the time the first game of 2026 comes around! I hope to be there, at least…”