Henrikh Mkhitaryan believes Cristian Chivu possesses the qualities of a “great coach” but admits that under Simone Inzaghi, Inter sometimes suffered from overconfidence.
The Inter midfielder shared his thoughts on the team`s transition from Inzaghi to Chivu in an interview with Gazzetta.
Chivu, a former Inter defender, took over from Inzaghi last summer after the Italian coach concluded his four-season tenure with the Nerazzurri.
While Chivu had already managed Inter during the Club World Cup, the new season has just commenced, and Mkhitaryan observes promising developments at the Stadio Meazza.
Mkhitaryan Praises Chivu`s `Intense and Enjoyable` Training
“It`s still early days; we`ve only been working together for a month, but I truly appreciate the attention he [Chivu] pays to every single detail,” Mkhitaryan stated.
“He is incredibly meticulous, a trait common among exceptional coaches. Our training sessions with him are both intense and, crucially, fun. They provide an extra boost of motivation and are demanding, keeping you constantly focused – a feeling that translates positively onto the pitch. Overall, Chivu has done an excellent job helping us turn a mental page after the last season`s conclusion. You cannot alter the past, but you can certainly shape the future.”
Last season, Mkhitaryan garnered attention for remarking that his Inter squad occasionally seemed “unbeatable,” yet he also noted instances where the team felt excessively strong and consequently lacked concentration.
“Indeed, it was a clear issue; we conceded points because, perhaps subconsciously, we believed we would win regardless,” he confessed.
“We are all addressing this with the coach. We are determined to avoid repeating that mistake. Nevertheless, I remain convinced that if we train diligently and commit ourselves fully, then everything truly becomes achievable for Inter. This isn`t arrogance; it`s genuine aspiration.”
Mkhitaryan Sees a Bright Future for Sucic
At 37, Mkhitaryan`s Inter contract is set to expire at the end of the season, but it appears Inter has already identified his potential successor in Petar Sucic.
“Sucic is as dedicated as I am. He applies himself diligently and has a keen interest in learning, including languages,” Mkhitaryan commented.
“He understands that being able to communicate in Italian will allow him to contribute even more effectively. That`s also why he`s destined for a great future. As a modern midfielder, he is quite impressive. He possesses excellent technical skills, is physically robust, and covers a lot of ground. He still needs to develop tactically, but he`s only 21.”
Inter has secured three consecutive Serie A victories before the international break, accumulating 12 points in the initial six rounds.
