On the eve of the friendly derby between Milan and Inter in Perth, Cristian Chivu spoke at a press conference about the upcoming challenges and the team’s preparation. The Nerazzurri coach addressed several topics, from managing players returning from the World Cup to the prospects for the new season.

Regarding the return of players involved in the world competition, Chivu spoke cautiously: “I doubt they will be ready for the first league match, we’ll see how much time it takes to get them back on the field, we don’t want to take too many risks. It’s not easy.” A statement that suggests possible absences for the season opener.

Regarding the indications expected from the team at this stage of preparation, the coach emphasized: “I want to see growth, from a physical and fitness point of view, I don’t look at the type of match we have to face. I’m satisfied with the fact that some players at this point in the preparation will play a few more minutes, always paying attention to whether we’ve overcome the jet lag and how many risks we can take.”

On the value of the derby, Chivu maintained a balanced approach: “It’s a special match for everyone, but in the end it’s a match like any other. Inter and Milan are famous all over the world, it will definitely be a great match to watch.” However, the coach clarified that August trophies don’t count and that the main goal remains to find the best condition for the league debut.

His position on the idea of playing Serie A matches abroad was interesting: “It would be nice, but it’s not easy to organize, because it involves a trip to the other side of the world for two teams who would then have a long return and other matches to play in quick succession.” The coach proposed a solution: “One idea could be to schedule it at the start of the season, a bit like the Tour de France which holds the first stages in another country. If the first matchday were to be played abroad, there would be the possibility to arrive in advance, maybe a week before, play the first match and then return home.”

Finally, regarding the young players joining the team, Chivu sent a clear message: “I know who we have available, I hope they look at the path of Federico, Pio, Aleksandar: it depends on them, on the intensity they put in, on the level they manage to show in matches with the seniors, which is different from what they find in youth leagues.”

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