Cristian Chivu Never Doubted Turkey Superstar’s Loyalty To Inter Milan: “Always Part Of The Group”

Inter Milan boss Cristian Chivu views Hakan Calhanoglu as an integral part of his squad despite a turbulent summer.

Speaking to Sky Sport via FCInterNews, Chivu admitted he has never questioned the Turkish star’s loyalty.

Heavily linked with a summer exit, Hakan Calhanoglu was the subject of intense transfer speculation.

Indeed, Fenerbahce and Galatasaray had both tried to lure him away from San Siro, but to no avail.

Meanwhile, Chivu replaced Simone Inzaghi in the dugout at the start of the summer.

However, the 44-year-old continues to rely heavily on the 31-year-old.

For context, the former AC Milan midfielder has started all four Serie A games since returning from suspension.

He also scored twice in a heartbreaking 4-3 defeat at Juventus.

Furthermore, he delivered two assists in Inter’s 2-0 win at Ajax in their opening Champions League outing.

Therefore, he will be part of the starting lineup in tonight’s game against Slavia Prague.

Interviewed before the kick-off, Chivu hailed his talismanic playmaker.

Inter Milan Coach Cristian Chivu Praises Hakan Calhanoglu

“He has always seemed to be part of the group to me,” Inter Milan boss Chivu said of Calhanoglu.

“Even in the U.S, when he was disappointed he couldn’t help us due to injury.

“We often spoke during the summer break. I saw him motivated and fired up, eager to be part of this team.

“We’re happy, and everyone in midfield is trying to raise their level and give their all.”

Then, he outlined his expectations for Piotr Zielinski and Yann Bisseck.

Both players will start tonight.

“I expect the same thing I expect from everyone who starts,” Chivu added. “That they deliver a performance full of focus and quality, because they have it and have already shown it.

“These are the usual Champions League games, where the opponent has quality and can put you in trouble.

“You have to read the moments and try to be dominant.”