Inter receive awards at the Gran Galà del Calcio 2025

“Chivu started coaching in our youth system, then took charge of the Primavera, so we're not surprised by his great conduct as a person, professional and coach. The values that we're all getting to know today were already clear to us as directors. It's no surprise to us. The best defence from last season was rewarded today. There is a lot of Inter involvement, which is a reason to be proud. In recent months, we've also seen the breakthrough of Pio Esposito; this is a strong and competitive side.”

“I celebrated like that because scoring is always special. It's vital for a forward. We went into it after two defeats, and we needed to get the three points yesterday, both in terms of the standings and our development. Pisa caused us problems with their pressing and physicality, but it was a game we needed to win, and we did so. The performances are there. We're playing good football and are doing what the coach wants. However, during a game, we need to be intelligent enough to make adjustments when necessary. Every game develops in a different way, so we need to be able to adapt. I have a great relationship with Chivu. We speak every day, and he hugs me a lot... maybe too much. I get more hugs from him than from my wife. That's the way he is, and it's nice because he knows what we go through in the dressing room. He came just when we needed a coach like that. He gives us confidence and freedom, but he also always instils his values in us. I'm pleased with the way this new period has begun. The team always comes first. We have a healthy and good relationship, which makes the group stronger. That's the only way to overcome obstacles and reach your objectives. Inter needs to aim high in every season. To do that, the group is fundamental. Under Chivu, we've added a more intense press. We try to win the ball back straight away. It's something we're working on each day, and that's bringing us benefits at the start of this season.”

“I think that centre-mid is a really particular role, especially nowadays. There are two phases of the game, and modern football requires strength and intensity. It's always quick. I try to use my abilities to help the team and always give 100%. That's the most important thing, apart from quality. At Inter, you always need to give your all.”

“Last season was really intense. Now, we're playing in a new season, and are aim is to fight on all fronts.”

“I've improved with my left foot over the years. Then, there's the nature of it, but I definitely have fun. I try to watch my teammates' movement to set them up as best I can.”

“We're a strong side. We've been playing together for many years now, and we always work in order to improve. We're a family.”

“Playing for Inter and Italy is a big responsibility, but these are things that every kid dreams about. So, I'm really happy. My brothers and I promised to renovate the pitch in Castellamare di Stabia, where we grew up, and we did that in 2024. We wanted to give the kids a chance to play like we did when we were young. It seemed like the right thing to do. It's the second year in a row that I've won an important award. Last year, I was the best young player in Serie B, and this year I'm the best young player overall. I'm happy, of course, but I'd prefer to show more on the pitch. This season, I'm just trying not to overcomplicate my game. I'm trying to bring to Serie A and international football what I was doing in Serie B. I always try to be that guy who gives 100% in training in order to improve. Maybe there is more responsibility playing for Inter and Italy than in Serie B, but I always try to stay the same. I don't think that losing to Atético and AC Milan means we're in a real run of poor form; it lasted three days. Football is made up of moments, and we didn't deserve to lose those two games, but we did. The team did really well to react against Pisa, because it was never going to be easy. It's a tough place to play against an organised unit. It was a big response. The coach hugs everyone. It's his way. He loves us a lot, he shows us affection, and he makes us feel like part of a group. That's he way of showing us he cares.”