Inter host Napoli at San Siro for Matchday 3 of Serie A, with Cristian Chivu keeping his starting eleven under wraps until close to kick-off. The Inter coach has indicated that selection remains open as players continue to build fitness following their summer World Cup commitments.

Speaking before the match, as reported by TuttoMercatoWeb, Chivu explained that he makes decisions late and wants every member of his squad to feel important. Inter have made a positive start, but Chivu has stressed that the group are still working towards their best condition.

Chivu Chasing Redemption Against Allegri

The meeting also gives Chivu another opportunity to face Massimiliano Allegri after Inter’s two defeats against his teams in 2025-26. Chivu has expressed his respect for Allegri’s record and experience, while acknowledging that Inter accepted those previous results and continued to focus on their wider objectives.

Chivu has also reflected on last season’s defeat in Naples, describing it as a source of motivation to address mistakes and weaknesses. He said the response included a long run of positive results, while cautioning that comparisons between seasons can be misleading because circumstances, coaches and ambitions change.

For Inter, the focus is on competing with courage and preserving a proactive identity. Chivu wants his side to remain determined and pragmatic, even while recognising that mistakes can occur during a match.

No Confirmed Absences, Selection Still Open

Chivu did not name any definitive absentees before the game. Instead, he noted that players returning from the World Cup have had additional training sessions and are improving physically, though their readiness will be assessed through the minutes they can play.

That leaves several selection questions unresolved, including how Chivu will balance experience and youth in attack. The coach’s emphasis is on a united squad rather than a fixed first-choice side: starters and substitutes alike are expected to contribute over a long season. Inter enter the Napoli match looking to build on their opening two league wins and show they can maintain their standards in a demanding fixture.