Alessandro Bastoni has expressed admiration for the immediate influence of Inter’s new head coach, Cristian Chivu, as he gears up for his debut competitive match.
Chivu, who took over from Simone Inzaghi earlier this month, returns to a club where he played over 100 matches. Inzaghi has moved on to manage Al-Hilal after his last game saw Inter suffer a 5-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League final.
The loss against PSG marked Inter’s second defeat in the Champions League final in three years and was the largest margin of defeat in such a match. Despite this setback, Inzaghi led Inter to win the 2023-24 Serie A title, along with two Coppa Italia and three Supercoppa Italiana trophies. Bastoni acknowledged the demanding yet successful four seasons under Inzaghi and praised Chivu for revitalising the team after a challenging period.
Bastoni reflected on their time with Inzaghi, stating, “We had four marvellous years together [with Inzaghi], then he made this decision. We have no complaints and speak to him often.” He emphasised the need to focus on positive aspects as they transition into a new era under Chivu’s guidance. The defender highlighted Chivu’s role in bringing fresh enthusiasm and energy to the squad.
Chivu has been instrumental in reminding the team of their past achievements and instilling a renewed sense of purpose. Bastoni noted that Chivu’s human touch left a strong impression on him. Having previously coached Inter’s Primavera youth team, Chivu is familiar with many players, which aids in his efforts to rebuild morale and focus on future goals.
The new head coach, alongside assistant manager Aleksandar Kolarov, faces the task of strengthening the team’s mentality after several exhausting seasons. Bastoni remarked on how crucial it is for both players and coaches to share responsibility when results are unfavourable. He acknowledged that change is inevitable in football, requiring readiness for any situation.
Bastoni’s International Coaching Change
On an international level, Bastoni also experienced a coaching change as Gennaro Gattuso took over as Italy’s head coach from Luciano Spalletti. This shift highlights how eras in football are finite and require adaptation from both players and coaches when circumstances change.
Inter will soon begin their Club World Cup journey against Monterrey from Mexico on June 17. As they prepare for this challenge, Bastoni remains optimistic about embracing new opportunities under Chivu’s leadership while reflecting on past successes.