La Repubblica has hailed Cristian Chivu and his growing authority at Inter Milan after the Nerazzurri returned to the top of the Serie A table with a gritty 1–0 win away to Roma.

The paper opens its analysis by noting that “you can celebrate first place even without champagne.”

This emphasises how Inter’s victory carries extra weight given the opponent, the context, and the simultaneous defeat of Napoli.

Chivu To Blame For Upturn In Inter Fortunes After Win Over Roma

Cristian Chivu Inter Milan
MILAN, ITALY – OCTOBER 04: FC Internazionale coach Cristian Chivu looks on before the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and US Cremonese at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on October 04, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Since defeat to Juventus last month, Inter have won six consecutive matches in all competitions, tightening up defensively and showing a more pragmatic edge when needed.

La Repubblica stresses that the 44-year-old coach has shown “the intelligence to change”, accepting that Inter cannot always dazzle in possession.

However, they must win battles, manage their rhythm and defend aggressively.

The numbers back that up.

Inter have conceded just two goals since mid-September.

It is a run that has pushed the Nerazzurri level at the top and restored belief after a shaky start.

Momentum is building and a title clash against Napoli is on the horizon.

Therefore, the newspaper concludes that Chivu now has every right to put forward his candidacy in the Scudetto race.