Inter Milan & Italy Star Defender Praises New Manager’s Quick Adaptation: “Understands What We Need” | OneFootball

Inter Milan center-back Alessandro Bastoni praised new manager Cristian Chivu for quickly adapting to the new surroundings.

Speaking to La Repubblica via FCInterNews, the star defender admitted Chivu knows what the Nerazzurri must do to get back on track.

Despite being in contention for a first treble since 2010, Inter finished the 2024/25 season empty-handed.

In addition to a gut-wrenching second-place finish in Serie A, they suffered a humiliation in the Champions League final.

Furthermore, Simone Inzaghi decided to add insult to injury when he announced his departure days after the game.

Though Inter hoped to sign Cesc Fabregas as Inzaghi’s replacement, the Spaniard has decided to stay at Como.

Therefore, they chose Cristian Chivu to lead the team into a new cycle.

Inter’s transition begins tonight as Chivu makes himself ready for his touchline debut in the Nerazzurri dugout.

Indeed, the Italian giants will face CF Monterrey in their opening FIFA Club World Cup fixture.

Alessandro Bastoni Praises New Inter Milan Manager Cristian Chivu

PARMA, ITALY – MAY 18: Cristian Chivu head coach of Parma calcio during the Serie A match between Parma and Napoli at Stadio Ennio Tardini on May 18, 2025 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

Bastoni will likely be part of Inter’s starting line-up at the Rose Bowl.

Winning would be a perfect way to start, yet the result isn’t the only thing that matters.

More importantly, there’s a profound understanding between the team and the manager.

“The first impressions are very positive,” Bastoni admitted. “You can tell he’s played the game and really understands what players need.

“We’ve only been here a few days, but the early signs are very encouraging. He understands what we’re looking for.

“We haven’t tried anything tactical yet – the focus is more on our mindset as players.

“Chivu emphasized the importance of the journey, rather than dwelling on the one match we got wrong.

“He made us understand that we must not forget how we reached that final.”

In addition to Chivu, Petar Sucic and Luis Henrique could make their Inter debuts against Monterrey.