Former Treble-Winning Defender Signs a Two-Year Deal To Lead Inter Milan Following Simone Inzaghi’s Departure to Al-Hilal.
Cristian Chivu has been officially named the new head coach of Inter Milan. The former Milan player replaced Simone Inzaghi, who stepped down after Nerazzurri’s 5-0 Champions League final loss to PSG a few weeks ago. The Romanian has signed a two-year contract with the club until June 2027.
Inter confirmed the appointment via their official website and social media platforms. This marked a significant moment in Chivu’s journey with the club, where he previously served as both player and youth coach. The 44-year-old former defender played for Inter between 2007 and 2014.
He made 168 appearances in those seven years. He also played a vital role in the club’s historic treble-winning season under José Mourinho in 2009–10. Chivu was key in Inter’s Champions League final win over Bayern Munich that capped off that glorious campaign.
After retiring, Chivu returned to Inter in 2019 to coach youth teams. Eventually, he took charge of the Primavera (U-19) side in 2021. Earlier this year, he stepped into his first senior management role when he replaced Fabio Pecchia at struggling Parma.
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He managed only 13 matches for Parma. However, even with this limited tenure, Chivu guided Parma to Serie A safety. He secured 16 points during his brief but impactful stint. Inter’s official statement praised Chivu, noting:
“Now, Cristian Chivu is beginning the third chapter of his Nerazzurri story. And he’s doing so with the values that have always guided him: dedication, sacrifice and a tireless work ethic.”
Chivu was one of several names linked with the position. As per reports, Inter also considered Cesc Fabregas and Patrick Vieira. Apparently the battle was between these three coaches. However, Como president Mirwan Suwarson refused to release Fabregas, and negotiations didn’t advance with Vieira.
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Chivu now faces his biggest test yet as he prepares Inter for the upcoming Club World Cup. There, they will open their campaign against Mexican side Monterrey on June 17 in Los Angeles. This tournament will be his first opportunity to prove himself at the top level.
Chivu has very little experience with the senior team. Even so, Inter have shown confidence in Chivu’s long-standing connection to the club and. Needless to say, expectations are running high following Inzaghi’s tenure and recent European run. Chivo will have to make it big in the Club World Cup.
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