Chivu explains Inter rotation and lack of playing time for new signing

Inter coach Chivu warns his players that he doesn’t want to see ‘selfishness’ and feels Andy Diouf is ‘more involved’ and is ‘training well.’

Inter coach Chivu previewed the upcoming Serie A game against Cremonese at a press conference on Friday.

The Nerazzurri boss hinted that he had practically decided on a replacement for the injured Marcus Thuram, but refused to reveal whether Yann Sommer or Josep Martinez would start in goal.

Chivu: ‘No rule’ for goalkeeper rotation

AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS – SEPTEMBER 17: Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of Internazionale, looks on prior to the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 match between AFC Ajax and FC Internazionale Milano at Johan Cruijff Arena on September 17, 2025 in Amsterdam, Netherlands. (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)

“There’s no rule that there must be a goalkeeper for the Champions League and one for the league. I’ll have to give them chances based on my feelings,” he said.

“What I don’t want is selfishness in the team. I’ve been very clear about it. I want everyone to understand the importance of each player. We’ll see who plays tomorrow. I have nothing to hide, but the players also need to feel responsible. Some tell me to say it before, some tell me after. In training, I always mix things up to make them feel all responsible and important. Maybe someone today is angry because they think they won’t play tomorrow, and I want it that way. Nobody should feel comfortable. They need to always be ready.”

SEVILLE, SPAIN – SEPTEMBER 20: Andy Diouf of RC Lens looks on during the UEFA Champions League match between Sevilla FC and RC Lens at Estadio Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan on September 20, 2023 in Seville, Spain. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

New signing Diouf has only made one substitute appearance so far this season, so how is he settling in?

“He was the last one to arrive; he needs time,” explained Chivu.

“I rewarded him in the first match, when he had just arrived the day before. That’s because there are no fixed rules. He’s been training well, and I see a lot of growth compared to when he first came. He was a bit shy. The impact can be quite big, but I see him more involved. The guys help him every day, and he’s slowly opening up and letting go. I see quality, a lot of ambition, determination and work ethic. Sooner or later, he’ll get his chance.”

Chivu: ‘Selfishness doesn’t exist’

MILAN, ITALY – AUGUST 25: Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of Internazionale, gestures during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Torino FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on August 25, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Talking of midfielders, Chivu was asked whether he expected more goals from those playing in the middle of the park.

“We’re never satisfied with anything. I expect the team to win, to step on the pitch with the right mentality and determination, trying to be the best version of itself,” he replied.

“We must not forget they also need to enjoy themselves. I don’t care about who scores; I care about who makes the assist, those who sacrifice themselves and show that selfishness doesn’t exist.”