Cristian Chivu urges patience with new Inter signings
Inter boss Cristian Chivu discusses the integration of John Stones and Curtis Jones following a narrow victory over Cagliari.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0 / Author: danheap77
Following a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Cagliari, Inter manager Cristian Chivu has asked for patience regarding the club's high-profile summer signings. Despite securing two wins from two to start the Serie A season, the coach emphasized that John Stones and Curtis Jones need time to settle.
Both players arrived from the Premier League and started on the bench during the trip to Sardinia, entering the match only as second-half substitutes. Chivu explained that their staggered integration is a deliberate attempt to manage their fitness and help them adapt to the team's specific tactical requirements.
The new players have just arrived. Playing on certain pitches with a certain amount of pressure is their bread and butter. However, Stones needs to regain his fitness, and Jones needs to adapt to our game. Their attitude is nothing to criticize; they're two exemplary players, and we're happy to have them. Cristian Chivu
The match also forced tactical shifts, with Chivu experimenting by moving Benjamin Pavard to a wing-back role. The manager expressed frustration that his side failed to capitalize on early dominance, allowing the hosts to threaten a late equalizer.
With six points secured, the focus now shifts to the Champions League. Inter faces a significant challenge against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu, a match Chivu is eager to use as a test for his newly assembled squad.