Inter Milan coach Cristian Chivu has expressed a balanced view following the team`s elimination from the Club World Cup. Despite a 2-0 loss to Fluminense, Chivu sees reasons for optimism and is already looking ahead to next season.
The Italian giants entered the tournament as favorites but fell short in their first knockout match. An early defensive lapse allowed German Cano to score for Fluminense, while Inter missed several chances to equalize. A late goal in stoppage time sealed Inter`s fate.
Chivu acknowledged that Fluminense appeared fresher and more intense on the pitch. He noted that Inter struggled with their opponents` high press and may have approached the game with overconfidence. However, the coach also pointed to some bad luck, with Inter hitting the woodwork twice and missing a clear opportunity through Stefan de Vrij.
Despite the disappointment, Chivu is focusing on the positives from his short time in charge. “I always see the glass as half full,” he stated. “These three weeks allowed me to get to know the squad – their strengths, weaknesses, and personalities. We`ll use this experience to plan for next season.”
The defeat caps off a difficult season for Inter, who missed out on several domestic trophies and suffered a heavy loss in the Champions League final. Captain Lautaro Martinez expressed frustration post-match, seemingly targeting teammate Hakan Calhanoglu who has been linked with a move away from the club.
Chivu took a more diplomatic approach than his captain but agreed with the sentiment. “We are winners, so we must dig deep for our pride and character,” he said. “We all need to work in the same direction if we want to bounce back from this tough season.”
As Inter look to regroup, Chivu`s measured response and focus on the future may help steady the ship during a turbulent period for the club.