Cristian Chivu has officially been appointed as the new manager of Inter Milan, the club announced Monday. The 44-year-old Romanian replaces Simone Inzaghi, who departed following Inter Milan’s 5-0 Champions League final defeat to Paris Saint-Germain on May 31. Chivu joins the Nerazzurri from Parma, where he served a brief but impactful tenure as head coach.
This marks a homecoming for Chivu, who played for Inter from 2007 to 2014 and was a vital part of the club’s historic treble-winning squad in 2010 under José Mourinho. Inter described Chivu as someone who has “gone through experiences and challenges of enormous importance,” highlighting his long-standing connection with the club. Chivu has signed a contract until 2027 and will lead the Inter Milan into a new era that begins with the FIFA Club World Cup later this month.
Rapid Rise: Parma Spell and Coaching Credentials
Chivu’s managerial résumé may be short, but it is already turning heads. Appointed by Parma in February 2025—his first senior role—he oversaw 13 matches, winning three and steering the club to Serie A safety. Though results were mixed, his influence was undeniable, bringing structure to a team that had struggled earlier in the season.
Prior to his stint at Parma, Chivu spent several years nurturing talent within Inter’s youth ranks. His development from youth coach to Serie A manager has been swift, and many see in him a modern coach with fresh ideas, tactical clarity, and a deep understanding of player development. His appointment by Inter signals a desire to build a team not just for immediate success, but for sustained growth anchored in the club’s footballing identity.
Replacing Inzaghi: A Tough Act to Follow
Chivu steps into big shoes following the departure of Simone Inzaghi, who leaves Inter Milan after a four-year spell filled with domestic silverware. Inzaghi won two Coppa Italia trophies and three Supercoppa Italiana titles, and led Inter Milan to a Champions League final in 2023 and again in 2025, though this year’s humiliating 5-0 defeat to PSG proved to be his last act.
Inzaghi’s tactical consistency and ability to compete in Europe were praised, but club executives decided it was time for a new vision. The move to appoint Chivu indicates Inter Milan ’s interest in blending youthful dynamism with a managerial figure rooted in club tradition. Inzaghi has since taken up a new role at Saudi Pro League giants Al-Hilal, closing a successful but turbulent chapter at San Siro.
OGM News.COM
Inter Milan Turn to Club Legend Chivu to Lead Post-Inzaghi Era
Chivu is known for a progressive 3-4-2-1 system that adapts well both in possession and transition. At Parma, he demonstrated a willingness to integrate young players into the first team—a philosophy Inter fans are eager to see replicated, especially with the club’s deep youth talent pool.
Inter Milan President Steven Zhang expressed confidence in Chivu, stating:
“Cristian embodies the Inter Milan spirit—intelligence, grit, and ambition. We believe he is the right person to lead the club into a new era.”
Supporters have warmly welcomed the appointment of one of their own. Chants of “Chivu! Chivu!” echoed outside Inter Milan HQ following the announcement. However, with the team under pressure to reclaim the Serie A title and bounce back from European heartbreak, the new manager’s honeymoon may be short-lived if results don’t arrive quickly.
Looking Ahead: Club World Cup and Transfer Window Challenges
Chivu’s first major test comes swiftly. Inter Milan begin their Club World Cup campaign against Mexican side Monterrey on June 17, with potential matchups against continental champions looming. He will also oversee a crucial summer transfer window, with star names like Lautaro Martínez and Nicolò Barella reportedly attracting interest from elite European clubs.
Balancing retention of key players with potential squad reinforcements will be essential. Furthermore, Chivu must assert authority and vision over a dressing room used to high standards and big personalities. With Inter Milan aiming for both domestic glory and European redemption, the pressure is on from day one.
As Chivu takes his place on the Inter Milan bench, fans will hope his second act at the club can echo the triumphs of his first—only this time, from the sidelines.
