Chivu: "We need composure and courage against Roma"

With the international break over, the Nerazzurri are ready to return to the pitch for Matchday 7 of Serie A: Inter take on Roma at the Stadio Olimpico on Saturday, with kick-off scheduled for 20:45 CEST.

On the eve of the match, Cristian Chivu answered questions from journalists in his pre-match press conference.

After the match against Cremonese, you mentioned the break would be good to recharge. How have the players been on their return, and how do you see the team ahead of tomorrow's game? "They've all come back well, with no issues. Of course, a few of them played a lot of minutes with their national team, and some even played two full matches. That's why we gave them a few extra days of rest and managed their workload carefully so they can be at their best tomorrow, both physically and mentally."

Tomorrow we play the best defence in Europe: how do you prepare for a well-organised and aggressive team like Gasperini's Roma? "What I like about Roma is their consistency after being led by Ranieri, while also adapting to Gasperini's style. They've found the right balance between defensive solidity and man-marking. It's an organised team that defends well, knows how to read the game, presses with courage and determination, but also knows how to stay tight at the same time. We'll need to be attentive and alert in spotting where they might give us space, take advantage of certain moments, and strike decisively."

Is a forward like Bonny or Pio more suited to playing against Gasperini's tight-marking defense? "I have three forwards, and they're all capable of playing that role, regardless of how the opponents defend. They can adapt and be spontaneous when they need."

The upcoming matches against Roma, Saint-Gilloise, and Napoli already seem decisive. What are your expectations of them? "I want us to build on the performance we displayed against Cremonese: determination, grit, and consistency. We need to strengthen our strong points and progress, not take any steps back. Every game is important, and by now we treat them all like finals. It doesn't matter if we're facing a big team or a small one; what matters is our mindset, our desire to dominate, and to impose our style of play. This squad has the quality, the talent, and the ambition to stay competitive on all fronts and see things through to the end."

How do you feel facing Gasperini again? "I have very fond memories of him, despite our time together being brief. He left a lasting impact on me, which has been confirmed by everything he has achieved in his career. In Bergamo, he transformed the way football is seen, introducing innovation and courage. He has been a point of reference for many of us, younger coaches. I remember I had one of the best pre-seasons of my career with him. I was at my mental and physical peak. Unfortunately, the results didn't show up immediately, but he proved himself and has been an example for many."

There's a lot to say about Pio, especially after his international goal. How do you manage such a young player who's already in the limelight? "I speak to him often because I think it's essential to offer guidance. He plays for Inter and his national team, so of course, pressure is part of the game. The key is to avoid unnecessary comparisons: he's still young, but his mentality and professionalism are already very mature. He's an international-level talent, recognised globally. We have to bear in mind that his life has transformed in just two months, but that's what he wanted. Now he's on the stage, he has to perform, learn how to manage it, even make mistakes, and keep the same motivation as always to keep improving."

You mentioned Gasperini has been a role model: what have you learnt from him as a coach? "His approach to the game, his defensive organisation, the courage and innovation he brought. He's been successful even at an international level, winning the Europa League. He's shown that you can take risks and bring something different. Like many others, I've tried to take inspiration from his ideas, adapting them to my own style. Learning from the best is essential, and he is definitely one of the best."

Will Sommer play? And when will Thuram be back? "Yes, Sommer will play. As for Thuram, we'll see. I don't know yet."

How does it feel to go back to Roma as a coach? "My four years at Roma were very important to me. I was young when I joined, playing for a league that was the strongest in the world at the time, and I had the fortune to work with great coaches: Capello, Spalletti, Voeller, Prandelli, Conti, and Delneri. I learnt a lot there and fell in love with Italy, which did a lot for me. Roma was a crucial chapter in my growth, both as a player and as a person."

Roma has plenty of points but hasn't scored many goals: do you think they can still improve? "We're only on Matchday 7, and it's a long season, so there's room for growth with every team. When a new coach comes in, it's natural that they take some time. I'm confident that Gasperini's Roma will continue to improve; they have a solid foundation and a clear strategy."