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MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 17: Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of FC Internazionale Milano, looks on prior to the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Cagliari Calcio at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on April 17, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Cristian Chivu hailed Inter’s “fantastic group” after a commanding 3-0 win at Lazio and delivered a pointed response to questions about José Mourinho’s recent comments, insisting that comparisons between this Inter side and the treble-winning 2010 generation are impossible to make.
According to post-match interviews with DAZN, via FCInterNews, and in his press conference at the Stadio Olimpico, via TuttoMercatoWeb, Chivu was in bullish mood as his side continued their preparations for Wednesday’s Coppa Italia final against Lazio in the best possible fashion.
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Chivu deflects Mourinho questions after Inter walk to victory over Lazio
On the performance, Chivu reserved special praise for the collective rather than individuals.
“It is the merit of everyone, not just Lautaro,” he said. “He puts in soul, professionalism and seriousness and gives everything he has. But it is also the merit of his teammates who follow him, especially in doing certain things. It is a fantastic group and team living something special. I am happy for them because they deserve it.”
When pressed repeatedly on Mourinho’s recent remarks, Chivu was measured but firm. “Ask him,” he said.
“I was fortunate enough to play in the other team. I am sure comparisons between two generations cannot be made, many things have changed in 16 years. But this Inter, like the 2010 side, brings joy to its fans, and that is the most important thing. Let’s talk about the Scudetto won this year and the Coppa Italia final, rather than numbers and polls.”
After a fourth question on the subject, he added: “What we write to each other stays between us.”
Chivu also spoke warmly about Petar Sucic’s display in a deeper midfield role.
“We knew Sucic could play in that position because of his personality, quality and composure on the ball,” he said.
“He has quality, in the national team he often plays in a two. Today he played a great game full of personality. We have a talented young player and we must appreciate him.”
On Josep Martinez, Chivu was equally effusive. “He was already ready before,” he said. “The goalkeepers are the soul of the group. We have never doubted his qualities or Sommer’s.”
Chivu also paid tribute to the late Evaristo Beccalossi after being asked about the absence of a minute’s silence for the Inter legend. “Losing someone dear to us who made the history of Inter fills us with regret,” he said. “We send our condolences to his family and to the entire Inter world. He was always close to us.”
On Hakan Calhanoglu’s fitness ahead of the final, Chivu offered only brief reassurance: “We will see in the coming days.”
