Cristian Chivu reflects on Inter's derby defeat to AC Milan

Inter Milan head coach Cristian Chivu has addressed the team's frustrating 3-1 defeat in the derby against AC Milan. The manager admitted that the result was painful, noting that both the team and the fans had higher expectations for this crucial clash.

Chivu explained that the coaching staff had to improvise due to sudden health issues affecting several players. Pio Esposito was feeling unwell, while Bonny had been battling a fever and nausea throughout the night leading up to the match. Despite the setbacks, the team managed to pull a goal back to make it 2-1 and came close to equalizing before a key save from the opposing goalkeeper.

It hurts to lose a derby when we and everyone else had different expectations. We chose the wrong approach, but we need to improve our mood and the determination that is sometimes lacking. Cristian Chivu

The manager emphasized that after the successes of last season, the team has struggled to maintain the same level of hunger. Chivu urged his squad to raise their concentration and intensity, acknowledging that their defensive passivity and lack of a sharp mindset at the start of the match proved costly against their rivals.