Ex Inter Milan Goalkeeper Raises The ‘Only Negative Point’ About New Head Coach Cristian Chivu | OneFootball

Walter Zenga offered his verdict on Inter Milan’s decision to appoint Cristian Chivu as Simone Inzaghi’s heir.

Speaking to Calciomercato L’Originale via FCInter1908, the former goalkeeper pointed at one crucial aspect.

Cristian Chivu officially took over the managerial reins at San Siro yesterday.

After Inter’s pursuit of Como coach Cesc Fabregas failed to come to fruition, they turned to the 44-year-old.

Despite his lack of experience in senior management, Chivu impressed during his short stint at Parma.

Indeed, he helped the Crusaders keep hold of their Serie A status against the odds.

Therefore, the Romanian gained some valuable top-flight experience, even though this is a much sterner test.

In addition to Inter, several other top Italian clubs have changed managers during the summer.

Juventus will probably stick with Igor Tudor, while Ivan Juric returned to Serie A to take charge of Atalanta.

Walter Zenga Delivers Verdict on Cristian Chivu Appointment at Inter Milan

ROME, ITALY – APRIL 28: Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of Parma Calcio, looks on prior to the Serie A match between SS Lazio and Parma at Stadio Olimpico on April 28, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)

“My only question mark over Chivu, Juric, and Tudor is the fact that they will also have to compete in the Champions League,” he said.

“That’s a competition that these teams have played as protagonists in recent years.

“At Inter, you need to win, that’s out of the question.

“Meanwhile, Febregas has a different focus on managing many situations.

“He played abroad and has a much more open mindset. But it’s the only point of negativity I see.”

Chivu has zero experience in the Champions League as a manager.

However, he was part of Inter’s treble-winning squad under Jose Mourinho in 2010.

That’s the mindset the Nerazzurri need to bounce back after a catastrophic loss in this season’s final.

Indeed, they fell to a dreadful 5-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in Inzaghi’s next game in charge.

Luckily, Chivu will have enough time to get familiar with the surroundings.