Today’s Serie A clash between Genoa and Inter Milan carries a special twist off the pitch as Genoa president Dan Sucu will go head-to-head with Cristian Chivu, the Nerazzurri coach he once nearly appointed at his Romanian club, Rapid Bucuresti.

Sucu, speaking to Sky Sport in recent days, admitted, via FCInterNews: “Honestly, I had thought about it for Rapid a while ago, but now it’s more or less impossible. I’m proud to see Chivu as Inter coach, that’s clear: in any case, I wish him the best of luck. But not for Sunday, that day’s luck is for us.”

The encounter adds an extra layer to a fixture already charged with intrigue.

Genoa Vs Inter Milan – Chivu In Focus As Coach Reunites With Old Friend De Rossi

Cristian Chivu Inter Milan
MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 30: FC Internazionale coach Cristian Chivu looks on before the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD2 match between FC Internazionale Milano and SK Slavia Praha at Stadio San Siro on September 30, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Beyond this personal backstory, Chivu also faces the familiar challenge of confronting his former teammate and friend, Daniele De Rossi, who now leads Genoa from the bench.

Genoa have improved massively under the former Roma midfielder and today’s match poses an interesting test for Inter.

While the tactical focus remains on the field, the history between Sucu and Chivu is a fascinating subplot.

Two Romanians, highly influential within Serie A, coming to lock horns in a special clash at the Marassi.