Once adored in the capital, Cristian Chivu is preparing for a very different welcome as he leads Inter Milan out at the Stadio Olimpico tonight.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, via FCInterNews, the Roma faithful are expected to greet their former defender with boos when he steps into the opposition dugout for the first time.
The Romanian was a key figure for Roma during his four years at the club, but his 2007 transfer to Inter remains a sore point for many supporters.
As the newspaper recalls, then-sporting director Daniele Pradè was close to finalising a deal with Real Madrid.
However, Chivu had already agreed terms with Inter and chose to honour his word to the Nerazzurri instead.
Roma To Boo Inter Milan Boss Chivu In Stadio Olimpico Return
That decision, Gazzetta writes, ‘marked him as a traitor in the eyes of Roma fans.’
‘Tonight, he already knows he’ll be drowned in hostility from old friends,’ the report continues.
‘It happened even when he returned as a player, but this time the feeling will be stronger.
‘Many wounded eyes will look toward his bench.’
Despite the tension, Chivu’s connection to the capital remains significant.
His years at Roma helped shape his understanding of Italian football.
This is knowledge he now brings back as the coach of an Inter side determined to maintain its dominant run.