Cristian Chivu, the celebrated former Inter defender and youth coach, is set to take over as the new manager of Inter Milano, succeeding Simone Inzaghi after a turbulent end to the club’s season. Here’s a comprehensive look at how Chivu’s appointment unfolded, what it means for Inter, and the context behind this high-profile move.
Background: Inzaghi’s Departure and Inter’s Search for a New Coach
Simone Inzaghi’s four-year tenure at Inter came to an abrupt end following a disappointing 5-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League final and a trophyless season for the club. Inzaghi’s exit, announced on June 3, was swiftly followed by his move to Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia. Inter’s management, led by President Giuseppe Marotta, immediately began the search for a successor, with names like Cesc Fabregas and Patrick Vieira considered, but ultimately ruled out.
Why Chivu?
Chivu emerged as the leading candidate due to his deep ties to Inter and his recent coaching successes. The Romanian spent seven years as a player at Inter (2007–2014), being part of the legendary treble-winning squad in 2010.
After retiring, he returned to the club in 2018 to coach various youth teams, notably winning the youth league title in 2022. Marotta highlighted Chivu’s expertise, strategic planning, and experience as key reasons for the appointment, stating, “To achieve victory, financial resources alone are insufficient; one needs expertise, strategic planning, experience, and various other qualities. We believe Chivu embodies these attributes”.
Negotiations and Contract Details
Chivu’s appointment was made possible after swift negotiations with both the manager and his current club, Parma, where he had been head coach since February 2025. Chivu had taken over Parma in a relegation battle, guiding them to safety with only three losses in 13 matches. He arrived in Milan on Thursday evening, dined with club executives, and finalised contract terms after a three-hour meeting at Inter’s headquarters on Friday morning.
Chivu has signed a two-year contract with Inter, reportedly earning €2 million per season—significantly less than the €4.5 million Inzaghi received, but a substantial increase from his Parma salary of €700,000. The official announcement is pending the completion of final bureaucratic steps with Parma, but Chivu is expected to begin training with the squad on Monday.
Chivu’s first significant test will be at the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States, with Inter’s opening match against Mexico’s Monterrey scheduled for June 17 at the Rose Bowl in Los Angeles. The tight schedule leaves little time for preparation, but Chivu’s familiarity with the club and its infrastructure is seen as a significant advantage.
A Historic Appointment
Chivu becomes only the second Romanian to manage Inter, following Mircea Lucescu’s brief stint 26 years ago. His return is seen as a homecoming for a club legend who has already written history as a player and youth coach.
Summary Table: Key Facts about Chivu’s Appointment
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| New Position | Head Coach, Inter Milano |
| Succeeds | Simone Inzaghi |
| Contract Length | 2 years (until June 2027) |
| Reported Salary | €2 million per season |
| Previous Role | Head Coach, Parma (Feb–June 2025) |
| Major Achievements | Saved Parma from relegation; Inter youth league title |
| First Challenge | Club World Cup, debut vs Monterrey, June 17 |
| Inter Playing Career | 2007–2014, part of 2010 treble-winning team |
Cristian Chivu’s appointment marks a new era for Inter Milano, blending the club’s storied past with a bold, youthful vision for the future. His rapid rise from youth coach to head of one of Europe’s most prestigious clubs is a testament to his leadership and deep connection with the Nerazzurri. The coming months will reveal whether Chivu can translate his promise and club loyalty into silverware at the highest level.
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