Chivu Takes Full Responsibility for Inter’s Champions League Struggles
Cristian Chivu has accepted full responsibility for Inter Milan’s problems ahead of Wednesday’s Champions League meeting with Shakhtar Donetsk, insisting his immediate target is a first win after two European defeats.
Inter welcome the Ukrainian champions to San Siro at 20:00 BST, with Chivu and defender Alessandro Bastoni facing the media at the Inter Training Center on the eve of the match.
Inter need a response
- Inter’s latest Champions League outing ended in a 4-3 defeat away to Club Brugge on Matchday 2.
- Chivu said the team must put wider concerns aside and focus solely on beating Shakhtar. “After two lost games, we must only think about tomorrow,” he said, calling victory in this match the priority.
- Shakhtar arrive in Milan in strong form, having won each of their last five matches in all competitions under Arda Turan.
- Inter host the Miners on Wednesday night, seeking to revive their European campaign in front of their home support.
Chivu takes the blame
The Inter coach refused to direct criticism towards his players after slow starts and defensive mistakes, saying the responsibility begins with him.
“I am to blame for everything that is not working,” Chivu said. “I do not point the finger at the players. I take responsibility for what happens on the pitch.”
He added that while he welcomes players taking ownership, he must first consider whether he has communicated his demands clearly enough. In his view, the coach has to be the leading figure accountable and must improve before asking more of the squad.
Chivu also played down the scale of the current setback, saying defeats should not be treated as a drama. He believes Inter face heavier expectations than some rivals and said his job includes reassuring the players so they can give their best.
Family-style management
Explaining his approach in difficult moments, including at half-time, Chivu said he can be calm, loud, humorous or demanding depending on what the situation requires.
He compared that relationship to his life with his children, saying the affection he has for his players is close to the feeling he has for his family.
Encouragement from Inter’s record
Inter have never lost in seven previous European encounters with Shakhtar. The Nerazzurri have conceded only one goal across those meetings, a record they will hope can provide confidence against a Shakhtar side arriving on a winning run.
