Cristian Chivu addresses Hakan Calhanoglu international controversy

Inter Milan manager Cristian Chivu has addressed speculation in Turkish media regarding the absence of Hakan Calhanoglu from recent international duty. The playmaker spent the three-week break at the club's training center to finalize his recovery from a physical issue.

Chivu clarified that he personally requested the midfielder remain in Milan to undergo a structured training regime, rather than traveling to watch his national team-mates from the sidelines.

I was the one who did not give him a day off, because I wanted to have him in the group for training. He is important for us with his qualities. We finished late and there was no way for him to reach his national team-mates. Cristian Chivu

The manager confirmed that Calhanoglu has been training without restrictions for a week and is fully available for Saturday's Serie A clash against Parma.

There was further positive news regarding Djed Spence, who has completed a full week of training following a two-month layoff due to injury. Chivu noted that the full-back has successfully completed five intensive sessions and will be included in the squad.

With the club facing a demanding fixture schedule, playing every three days, Chivu emphasized the necessity of managing player workloads to protect key assets. The Nerazzurri are aiming to continue their unbeaten domestic record, with potential rotation in the goalkeeping department also being considered as the team prepares for their upcoming home fixture.