Article by Alexandru Tomuțiu – Published Tuesday, February 24, 2026, 10:39 p.m. / Updated Tuesday, February 24, 2026 10:41 p.m.
Cristi Chivu (45 years old), the Inter Milan coach, explained one of the choices made in the starting team sent to the field in return with Bodo/Glimtfrom the Champions League round of 16 play-off.
Condemned to beat Bodo/Glimt by at least two goals to be able to go to the round of 16 of the League, Cristi Chivu chose to start Davide Frattesi in the midfield of the Italians for the return from San Siro.
Cristi Chivu, before Inter – Bodo/Glimt: “Davide Frattesi has overcome the problems and must make his contribution”
Frattesi's starting came as a surprise to the Italians, and journalists asked Chivu about this choice minutes before kick-off and the technician explained from the pitch.
“Everything is possible, it depends on us, on our determination and attitude, but also on the balance that must be found and achieved, everything is possible.
Frattesi is an added value to the group, like everyone else, he has shown it in the past and at times this year. He overcame the problems at the beginning of the year and must make his contribution,” said Cristi Chivu, according to fcinter1908.it.
How Cristi Chivu started the comeback with Bodo/Glimt: Sommer – Bisseck, Akanji, Bastoni – L. Henrique, Frattesi, Zielinski, Barella, Dimarco – Thuram, Esposito
Davide Frattesi. Photo: Imago Images
Davide Frattesi has not been one of Cristi Chivu's regular starters this season. Until the match against the Norwegians, the midfielder played in 23 games, during which he provided 3 decisive assists, without scoring.
The first leg showed us what we already knew, that it won't be easy. We had to adapt as best we could, but only intermittently. I knew they were strong. We have a duty to give everything. We must be confident, aware that it will not be easy.
– Cristi Chivu, before Inter – Bodo/Glimt
