Inter Milan is reportedly set to name club legend Christian Chivu as their new head coach. This follows Simone Inzaghi`s departure to join Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal on Wednesday. Chivu was part of Inter`s treble-winning squad in 2010, which included the Champions League title.
According to Sky Italy, Chivu is expected to sign his contract after declining a contract extension with his previous club, Parma. His recent senior coaching experience is limited, having managed Parma in just 13 Serie A matches during the 2024-25 season, recording three wins, seven draws, and three defeats. Chivu is well-acquainted with Inter, having previously managed their U19 team. As a player for the club, he achieved significant success, including winning the Serie A title, two Coppa Italia trophies, three Supercoppa Italiana titles, and reaching two Champions League finals.
Inter had reportedly been seeking a young coach to initiate a new era and focus on youth development. Cesc Fabregas, the former Barcelona and Arsenal midfielder currently managing Como, was reportedly their primary target. However, Como swiftly rejected any possibility of talks. Como president Mirwan Suwarso stated: `We communicated our refusal directly to the president of Inter, who acknowledged it with the courtesy and clarity expected between clubs with mutual respect. Therefore, we consider persistent rumors about their interest in our coach to be pure fantasy. It`s unlikely anyone would insist after such a clear answer, especially a club of Inter`s standing.`
Patrick Vieira, formerly of NYCFC, was another name linked with the position. Following Como`s refusal regarding Fabregas, Inter seemingly turned their attention to Chivu. This marks a return to the club for the Romanian, where he played from 2007 to 2014 and began his coaching journey with the youth teams from 2018 to 2024 before his brief spell at Parma this year.
Chivu is also expected to lead Inter Milan in the expanded FIFA Club World Cup, set to take place in the United States starting June 14. Inter will face Monterrey, Urawa Reds, and River Plate in the group stage of the inaugural tournament.
