Inter coach Cristian Chivu has emphasized the importance of a selfless team mentality within his squad. He noted that new signing Andy Diouf is increasingly engaged and performing well in training, despite limited playing time.
During a press conference on Friday, Chivu previewed Inter`s upcoming Serie A fixture against Cremonese. He indicated that he had virtually decided on a replacement for the injured Marcus Thuram but refrained from disclosing whether Yann Sommer or Josep Martinez would start in goal.
Chivu: No Fixed Rules for Goalkeeper Rotation
Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of Internazionale, in Amsterdam.
“There’s no rule that there must be a goalkeeper for the Champions League and one for the league. I’ll have to give them chances based on my feelings,” he stated.
“What I don’t want is selfishness in the team. I’ve been very clear about it. I want everyone to understand the importance of each player. We’ll see who plays tomorrow. I have nothing to hide, but the players also need to feel responsible. Some tell me to say it before, some tell me after. In training, I always mix things up to make them feel all responsible and important. Maybe someone today is angry because they think they won’t play tomorrow, and I want it that way. Nobody should feel comfortable. They need to always be ready.”
Andy Diouf of RC Lens during a UEFA Champions League match.
Addressing questions about Andy Diouf, who has made only one substitute appearance since joining Inter, Chivu explained the midfielder needs time to adapt, having been the last new arrival.
“He was the last one to arrive; he needs time,” Chivu explained. “I rewarded him in the first match, when he had just arrived the day before. That’s because there are no fixed rules. He’s been training well, and I see a lot of growth compared to when he first came. He was a bit shy. The impact can be quite big, but I see him more involved. The guys help him every day, and he’s slowly opening up and letting go. I see quality, a lot of ambition, determination and work ethic. Sooner or later, he’ll get his chance.”
Chivu: Selflessness is Key
Cristian Chivu gestures during a Serie A match.
Regarding expectations for midfielders` goal contributions, Chivu stated that while he is “never satisfied with anything,” his primary focus is on the team`s overall success.
“I expect the team to win, to step on the pitch with the right mentality and determination, trying to be the best version of itself,” he replied. “We must not forget they also need to enjoy themselves. I don’t care about who scores; I care about who makes the assist, those who sacrifice themselves and show that selfishness doesn’t exist.”
