With Inter and Napoli set to collide at San Siro, Marco Materazzi has thrown his weight firmly behind Cristian Chivu, insisting he never had doubts about the Romanian coach and pointing to key individ...
With Inter and Napoli set to collide at San Siro, Marco Materazzi has thrown his weight firmly behind Cristian Chivu, insisting he never had doubts about the Romanian coach and pointing to key individuals who could decide the contest.
Speaking to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the former Inter and Italy defender made it clear where he believes the balance lies.
Materazzi sees Inter as favourites, stressing that playing at home and superior quality should make the difference, even if recent head-to-heads suggest otherwise.
He recalled how Inter “dominated Juventus in Turin” and felt they were unfortunate in Naples, where defeat came via “a penalty never seen in the history of football”.
Inter Vs Napoli – Nerazzurri Legend Materazzi Underlines Chivu Impact
GENOA, ITALY – DECEMBER 14: Cristian Chivu, head coach of Inter, reacts during the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and FC Internazionale at Luigi Ferraris Stadium on December 14, 2025 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)
Materazzi underlined that Chivu’s impact has been subtle but profound.
The former defender described the coach’s influence as “silent”, noting that those who watch Inter closely can see how the team has evolved.
He spoke of a side that is now “recognisable and fluid”, creating chances in abundance, with Chivu having “got into the players’ heads”.
On a personal level, Materazzi was emphatic: “I never had any doubts, because I know what kind of man he is.”
Looking ahead to the pitch battles, Materazzi highlighted the forwards as decisive.
He admitted he is “crazy” about Marcus Thuram, explaining that Thuram and Lautaro Martinez give meaning and identity to Inter’s attacking play.
At the same time, he warned of Napoli’s threat in Rasmus Hojlund, who impressed him during the Supercoppa.
Materazzi praised the Dane’s ability to protect the ball, fight, run and score, calling him “modern, complete and tough to mark”, a striker capable of lifting the entire team.
For Materazzi, the message is clear: Inter have the edge, Chivu has earned trust, and the match could hinge on the brilliance of the men up front.
Category: General Sports
