Milan is a city in flux. While the iconic San Siro stadium prepares for its final act, a different kind of architectural marvel is taking shape on the pitch: a rejuvenated Inter Milan, meticulously constructed by a man many thought was too green for the grand stage. Cristian Chivu, a name etched in Nerazzurri history, is now writing a new chapter as manager, and his early decisions are turning heads, prompting whispers of a genuine Champions League challenge.
From Past Disappointment to Present Promise
Last season ended in European heartbreak for Inter. A crushing 5-0 defeat in the UEFA Champions League final against PSG served as a stark, if painful, reminder of the gap to Europe`s elite. Such a resounding disappointment often triggers a seismic shift, and indeed it did. Former manager Simone Inzaghi departed for Al-Hilal, leaving a void that many expected to be filled by a seasoned tactician. Instead, the club turned to Cristian Chivu, a 2010 Champions League winner with Inter, but a coach with relatively limited senior management experience, primarily from Parma.
Skepticism, naturally, followed. Could a former player, still wet behind the ears in the dugout, steer a club of Inter`s stature through the choppy waters of Serie A and the demanding currents of the Champions League? The early returns suggest a resounding “yes.”
The Subtle Art of Rotation: Chivu`s Tactical Blueprint
Chivu`s most striking innovation, and arguably his greatest success thus far, lies in his approach to player rotation. Unlike the previous season, where a distinct “European XI” and “Serie A XI” seemed to operate in parallel universes, Chivu`s strategy is more nuanced. It`s not about segregating the squad but harmonizing it – managing minutes, preserving energy, and capitalizing on the immediate form of his players.
Consider the recent Champions League fixture against Slavia Prague, following a domestic clash with Cagliari. Chivu made seven changes to the starting lineup. Yet, this wasn`t a wholesale dismissal of form players for European specialists. Instead, it was a calculated recalibration. Players like Yann Sommer, Federico Dimarco, Marcus Thuram, and Denzel Dumfries found themselves featuring consistently, highlighting Chivu`s focus on maintaining core strength while integrating fresh legs. Lautaro Martinez`s minor injury provided a convenient justification for rotation in the Ajax away game, but the overarching principle remains: decisions are driven by the squad`s weekly performance and fitness.
“There were only 72 hours between one match and the next, and because I wanted to give a chance to some players who had been playing less, while still keeping the team compact and of quality. I`m happy I was able to give a few minutes to [Yann] Bisseck and Zielinski and let some others rest. I also have to consider that some players will go to their national teams and play another two matches.”
This statement encapsulates Chivu`s pragmatic wisdom. It`s not just about resting players; it`s about fostering competition, developing depth, and ensuring every player feels valued and ready to contribute. The resounding 3-0 victory over Slavia Prague, following an opening win against Ajax, serves as compelling evidence that this delicate balancing act is yielding tangible results. Inter are starting their Champions League campaign with conviction, a stark contrast to recent memories.
The Road Ahead: From Challengers to Contenders?
The true test of Chivu`s system, and Inter Milan`s renewed aspirations, will come against stronger opposition. While early successes against Slavia Prague and Ajax are commendable, the looming fixtures against the likes of Arsenal, Atletico Madrid, and Liverpool in the latter stages of the group phase will be the ultimate proving ground. Before then, Inter face Union Saint-Gilloise away and Kairat at San Siro – crucial opportunities to consolidate their position and build momentum.
If Chivu can continue to deftly navigate the demanding schedule, rotating his squad with such acumen between domestic and European commitments, and if Inter continues to perform with this newfound cohesion, then the question of their contender status might shift from hopeful speculation to genuine expectation. The Nerazzurri are not just winning; they are winning with a sense of purpose and a depth of talent that speaks volumes about the manager`s influence.
A New Era for Milan, A New Hope for Inter
As Milan prepares to bid farewell to the iconic San Siro, a stadium that has borne witness to countless triumphs and heartbreaks, Inter Milan seems to be embarking on its own new era. The approval of the San Siro`s sale and subsequent demolition marks the end of an architectural epoch, yet on the pitch, Chivu is building something equally significant – a foundation for future glory. It’s a compelling juxtaposition: the tangible, historic structure giving way to the abstract, evolving structure of a winning team.
Cristian Chivu, once a defensive stalwart for Inter, is now proving to be an equally formidable architect from the sidelines. His calculated gambit with player rotation is not just delivering results; it`s igniting a belief that Inter Milan can once again stand tall among Europe`s footballing giants. The city may be changing its landscape, but Inter is changing its narrative – from past regrets to a promising future, all under the astute guidance of a quietly revolutionary manager.
Rupert Fairfax 
Dominic Ashworth