Article by Romeo Ene – Published on Saturday, 27 December 2025, 20:09 / Updated on Saturday, 27 December 2025 20:09
Cristi Chivu (45 years old), the coach of Inter, held the press conference prior to the away duel with Atalanta, in the 17th round of Serie A. The match takes place on Sunday, December 28, from 21:45.
Asked about the situation of midfielder Davide Frattesi (26 years old), who is tired of the reserve status and wants to leave the team, Chivu explained that he will not use him on the right flank, despite the squad problems.
Frattesi played 14 matches this season for Inter (499 minutes).
Cristi Chivu, statements before Atalanta – Inter: “Some things must stay in the dressing room”
Chivu stated that he cannot say the real reason why Fratessi is not getting more minutes this season. Explain that some things must remain in the locker room and belong to the club's internal kitchen.
“No, never (Frattesi on the right). We did some experiments with Carlos Augusto or Andy Diouf, who can play the role with his physical impact and courage. We never thought of Davide as a solution, except possibly as a second peak, to give him a chance to get into the box.
He played maybe less than expected, but I can't say everything, some things have to stay in the locker room. I don't have to justify myself. We took Luis Henrique for that role and he is doing quite well, although the integration into this team is not easy.
Against Atalanta it is never easy. Through intensity and verticality, it forces you to be brave, to be concrete on the few opportunities you will be given.
There are five days left until the transfer window opens. It's always difficult for a coach to talk about it, because it's disrespectful to his players.
A coach will never come to you saying what is missing or what is needed, because that would mean that the 25 he has at his disposal are not at a good level. I'm stopping here, I just wanted to explain,” said Chivu, quoted by fcinternews.it.
In the locker room, things are always said directly. I will always respect my players. Inside, everyone takes responsibility. It is important to be aware of where we can improve. It looks simple from the outside, but it's not when you work with everyone and try to improve.
We always tried to put everything necessary to progress. Players should not be taken individually for their mistakes, they are the first to admit them.
It is constantly working to correct flaws, to accept self-criticism, which sometimes gets you out of trouble, accepting to look in the mirror and ask yourself what you can do better, to get out of your comfort zone. The answers have come, referencing us to last season. The group worked and took responsibility/
– Cristi ChivuInter's coach
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