Cristian Chivu has called on his Inter Milan side to show intelligence, intensity and emotional control as they look to bounce back from a bitter Champions League setback against an in-form Genoa side at Marassi.
Speaking to Sky Sport ahead of kick-off, the Nerazzurri coach made it clear that external factors must not distract his team from the task at hand.
Even with the results of rival sides already known.
“We have to look at ourselves,” Chivu explained, with quotes via FCInterNews.
“We’re playing a match that won’t be simple because Genoa are in a good moment. They’ve picked up plenty of points. They have energy and they play at home. We need to immerse ourselves fully in this game.”
Genoa Vs Inter Milan – Chivu Reunites With Old Friend De Rossi
The fixture also brings a personal subplot, with Chivu facing former teammate and friend Daniele De Rossi on the opposite bench.
However, the Inter coach revealed there had been no contact in the build-up.
“No, we didn’t speak this week,” he said simply when asked whether the two had exchanged messages.
Chivu nonetheless spoke with admiration about the work De Rossi has done since taking charge at Genoa, highlighting the tactical and mental changes instilled in the Ligurian side.
“De Rossi has transmitted character and quality,” he noted.
“They circulate the ball better, they try to open you up to find vertical solutions. Their forwards are scoring goals. It will be complicated.”
With squad rotation and game management set to play a role, Chivu underlined what he expects from his players on the pitch.
“I expect a group that understands the importance of the match,” he stressed.
“They need to understand the moments as quickly as possible. Because sometimes you have to use quality and sometimes intensity.”