Inter vs Bologna is the Nerazzurri’s first test of 2026, and Cristian Chivu used his pre-match press conference to address the key talking points around the squad, including Stefan de Vrij, Davide Frattesi, and the growing Cancelo rumours.
Chivu made it clear that Inter feel the weight of expectation every week, with quotes via FCInterNews.
He said the team carry “the usual responsibilities at a club like this, because of the expectations and ambitions,” and he expects a tough night because Bologna “have caused problems for everyone” thanks to their “clear identity.”
Inter Vs Bologna – Chivu Praises Opponents Ahead Of Tricky Test
He then explained why beating Bologna feels so complicated.
Chivu praised their intensity and athleticism, warning that they “make things difficult even in simple situations when they attack.”
He pointed to wide players who “take people on,” plus forwards and runners who “fill the box.”
Without the ball, Bologna “go man-to-man,” press with timing, and play “with determination.”
Even if Inter beat the first wave, he noted, Bologna “drop back with numbers.”
When asked where Inter must improve, Chivu kept the message simple.
“We have to do things better,” he insisted, adding that teams who want to compete must “add something to what they’re used to.” He also stressed that “a sense of responsibility and ambition can never be missing.”
Chivu Talks Squad Choices
On the jabs and noise from outside, Chivu refused to bite.
“For me, it has no effect,” he said, arguing that it “has nothing to do with this sport.” He wants criticism only when it is constructive, because “pointless controversy helps nobody.”
That set the tone for the Cancelo question.
Chivu did not engage with the rumour directly. Instead, he said he would “rather talk about my players,” naming Luis Henrique, Diouf, Dumfries, and Darmian, who he noted is close to returning.
He described himself as “a coach who looks at the reality of the facts,” and added: “I love this group. I’m at Inter’s level, and I’d prefer to talk about them.”
January’s schedule is relentless, so rotation will matter. Chivu recalled that during congested spells Inter have looked for “fresh energy,” based on opponents, training levels, and “merit.”
He underlined that “we need everyone,” because playing every three days is not easy.
Inter have “25 players, 22 outfield players,” and he believes they can keep the team competitive with those resources: “I couldn’t do without them.”
A question about Inter committing more fouls than in the past drew a pointed response. Chivu called it “the perception of danger” and said when Inter press, they accept the risk of being beaten, so they must react.
He even laughed at headlines that label Inter “a team of blacksmiths,” then added he likes the bravery: the players “aren’t afraid to make a foul,” because they want to “win the ball back as soon as possible” and create something.
Inter Vs Bologna – Chivu Addresses De Vrij, Frattesi, Cancelo Speculation
Crucially, Chivu also addressed De Vrij and Frattesi, two players regularly linked with exits. He did not sound worried.
“I’m not afraid of anything,” he said. “I trust their professionalism when they’re called upon.” He admitted they are “maybe the ones who have done less,” partly due to physical issues in Frattesi’s case, and partly because Inter have “introduced Akanji in the middle.”
Still, Chivu praised De Vrij’s training standards and leadership, calling him “an example,” before promising: “Both will definitely get more opportunities.”
Chivu also spoke about why pressing and forcing mistakes matter more than ever. In his view, “when you win the ball back, you have more chances to score.”
If a team builds slowly, “the opponent sits deep and it becomes complicated.”
That is why Inter “risk pressure,” because they want to intercept passes and attack a defensive line “that isn’t organised.”
Finally, asked about how he feels now, and who the Scudetto favourite is, Chivu mixed irony with realism. “Fun? Not really,” he said, although he admitted he “smiles” at the noise and uses it to focus on developing the squad.
On the title race, he refused to pick one team. With several sides packed together, he said the table speaks for itself: “Right now, they all have their chances.”