Cristian Chivu remained optimistic despite Inter's 2-1 defeat to Real Madrid in their Champions League opener at the Santiago Bernabéu. The Nerazzurri manager refused to dwell on the result, instead highlighting the character and intensity his squad displayed against the record European champions.
"I'm not angry; I'm happy with the courage and personality we showed," Chivu told the club's official channels after the match. The former defender emphasized that Inter's approach—playing on the front foot rather than retreating into a defensive shell—represented the blueprint he wants his side to follow in Europe. "We didn't try to sit back and speculate; we went toe-to-toe with Real Madrid, and that's the performance I'm taking away from this game."
Playing to Win, Not to Survive
Inter's tactical ambition against José Mourinho's side came with inherent risks. The Nerazzurri created several clear-cut chances but were ultimately undone by precision in finishing and set-piece vulnerability. Yet Chivu viewed the 90 minutes as a constructive foundation for his squad's European campaign rather than a demoralizing setback. "What matters to me is the reaction to certain mistakes, the body language, and how much you believe in what you're doing," he explained, stressing psychological resilience over statistical domination.
The fixture carried emotional weight for Chivu, who faced his former mentor Mourinho, the architect of Inter's legendary treble in the 2009-10 season. The pair won their sole Champions League title together at San Siro, a bond that transcends rivalry. "I have enormous affection for Mourinho for everything we did together and for the way he conducted himself as a great man," Chivu reflected warmly after their embrace on the touchline.
Looking Ahead in Serie A and Europe
With Club Brugge awaiting in their next Champions League fixture, Inter must first refocus domestically. A Monday trip to Udinese in Serie A provides an immediate opportunity to bounce back and maintain momentum in the Italian league. The international break will give Chivu's squad time to process their opening European assignment and prepare for their continued assault on both continental and domestic honours.
