Inter coach reflects on third straight Champions League loss but remains confident ahead of possible playoff scenario
Inter’s European campaign has taken another hit. The loss to Arsenal at San Siro marked a third consecutive Champions League defeat, a result that complicates the Nerazzurri’s path toward direct qualification for the knockout stages. Yet Cristian Chivu refused to frame the night as a total failure.
Speaking after the match, Inter’s head coach acknowledged Arsenal’s superiority while also highlighting positive signs from his team. According to Chivu, the difference lay in pace, technical quality, intensity, and control of second balls — areas where the Premier League side consistently set the tempo.
Inter, however, were far from passive. Chivu pointed to a strong first half, during which his side created moments that could have shifted the balance. At 1–1, a potential lead was within reach, and as the coach noted, small episodes often determine matches at this level. Instead, misfortune and fine margins went against Inter.
After the break, Arsenal raised their standard. Chivu suggested that Mikel Arteta’s team showed greater humility in the second half, abandoning any early complacency and benefiting from impactful substitutions. The increased pressure eventually told.
With one matchday remaining in the league phase, Inter’s position is still unclear. Chivu made it clear that his team is mentally prepared for all scenarios, including the possibility of navigating the playoff route. He also expressed lingering frustration over earlier defeats against Liverpool and Atlético Madrid — games he believes Inter deserved more from.
Despite the setbacks, Chivu sees progress. Comparing the current version of his team to that of a month ago, he argued that growth is evident and that similar matches played today might yield different outcomes. What reassures him most is the mentality of the squad, which he described as consistently committed and resilient.
Tactically, Chivu explained several in-game decisions, including adjustments on the flanks and a late switch involving Diouf. A potential move to a 4-3-3 was considered, but concerns over attacking presence held him back. Arsenal’s reaction to Inter’s changes — including the introduction of Gabriel — underlined the depth and adaptability of the English side.
Ultimately, Chivu reserved his strongest praise for Arsenal themselves. He described them as the most impressive opponent Inter have faced so far, citing the precision of their choices, the speed of execution, and the individual quality of players like Bukayo Saka, who repeatedly created danger in one-on-one situations.
“The Premier League is a different world,” Chivu admitted. “In Italy, you’re not used to facing this level of intensity and execution.” Still, his conclusion was forward-looking: Inter must continue to grow step by step, without losing belief in their identity.
