Inter Milan’s coach, Cristian Chivu, has recently drawn parallels with his former manager, José Mourinho, following his assertive statement at a recent press conference: “I’m not a fool.”
In today’s edition of La Gazzetta dello Sport, Chivu’s remarks were likened to Mourinho’s iconic style after he used the term “Special Chivu,” echoing Mourinho’s well-known moniker “The Special One.”
During his pre-match press conference ahead of a Serie A clash with Cagliari, Chivu addressed skeptics who had suggested that his lack of experience might lead to an early dismissal this season.
“I can be many things, but I’m not a fool,” stated Chivu confidently.
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 28: FC Internazionale head coach Cristian Chivu observes the match between FC Internazionale and Genoa CFC at the Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 28, 2026. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Mourinho had famously used a similar phrase during his introductory press conference in 2008, remarking, “I’m not a ‘pirla,’” a term in Milanese slang meaning idiot or fool.
It’s clear that Mourinho has had a profound impact on Chivu, not just as a player, having participated in 59 matches under Mourinho at Inter, where they secured the Treble in the 2009-10 season.