Chivu Accuses Media: "Drama and Criticism Only for Inter"

Inter Milan coach Cristian Chivu has reiterated his belief that his club is unfairly targeted by the media, stating that "people line up to throw rocks at Inter" and "stir up drama" exclusively against them. This criticism comes even as Inter leads Serie A, preparing for a crucial match against Roma.

Despite entering the international break as Serie A leaders, a recent dip in form – including a derby defeat to Milan and two consecutive 1-1 draws against Atalanta and Fiorentina – sparked what Chivu called an exaggerated "crisis" narrative. This period reduced their lead at the top of the table to six points with eight rounds remaining.

Chivu Believes Inter Unfairly Singled Out

During a recent press conference, Chivu emphasized the team's strong performance over the season. "The league is a marathon, and a streak of 18 games with 14 victories, three draws, and one defeat sets a very good rhythm," he stated. "Drama is only stirred up for a draw at Inter, but not for any other club. We are top of the table and have surpassed expectations."

He further highlighted what he perceived as a "trial by media" following a controversial game against Juventus. Chivu expressed his frustration: "I've never seen media scrutiny like the one after the Juve game. As long as it's Inter, people want to line us all up and throw rocks. When incidents go against us, nobody says anything." He added, "Historically in Italy, whoever is at the top gets hated, but we represent a glorious club and have marvellous fans."

When questioned about referee assignments and VAR officials for Inter's matches, Chivu dismissed the concern, stating his focus remains solely on coaching his team. "If I am meant to start thinking about the referee, VAR, assistant referees, that’s not my job, nor am I interested. My only worry is my team," he affirmed.

Looking ahead to the upcoming match against Roma, who have also experienced recent stumbles, Chivu acknowledged the challenge. "Gian Piero Gasperini is a great coach who managed to impose his identity on Roma ahead of all expectations," he said. "We must show belief and intensity, accept what Roma propose on the pitch, because it is never easy against one of Gasperini’s sides. We need courage and the right ambition to take a complicated result home."

The team also welcomes back Lautaro Martinez, who has been sidelined since early February. Chivu underscored the importance of every player: "Every individual player is crucial for us... They all know what support they can give to the team and how important it is to have them all ready, both physically and mentally."