Calhanoglu Fit as Chivu Demands Inter Focus for Club Brugge Clash
Hakan Calhanoglu has been declared fully fit for Inter Milan’s Champions League home meeting with Club Brugge, with Cristian Chivu also urging his side to treat the Matchday 2 contest as their only priority.
Inter v Club Brugge: key facts
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Competition | UEFA Champions League, league phase, Matchday 2 |
| Venue | Inter’s first home match of the league phase |
| Inter’s opening result | Defeat away to Real Madrid |
| Squad update | Calhanoglu is available |
Chivu confirmed that the midfielder has had no fitness issue and will be at his disposal as Inter look to respond after losing their opening European fixture in Madrid.
The Inter coach said the club’s standing means it must compete for every target this season, but stressed that ambition alone will not bring major honours. He called on the squad to turn its dreams into responsibility through daily improvement, individually and collectively.
Chivu added that there is no financial shortcut to winning the Champions League. In his view, players need the nerve to aim high, while consistent work remains the decisive factor.
He also offered firm support for Alessandro Bastoni, describing the defender as an important figure for both Inter and Italy and highlighting his quality and character.
Former Inter goalkeeper Yann Sommer is set to return with Club Brugge, and Chivu said the Swiss international deserves gratitude for his three years at the club.
No room for distractions
Inter face a busy run across Serie A and Europe, but Chivu warned against allowing the wider schedule to affect the immediate task. “Tomorrow is the one that matters most,” was his message ahead of Brugge’s visit.
Chivu expects an aggressive Belgian side, capable of pressing high and committing numbers forward when attacking. He said Brugge are ambitious and proactive in and out of possession, underlining that the Champions League offers no straightforward assignments.
Next, Inter must turn their home debut in the league phase into a first European result after the setback at Real Madrid.
