Article by Daniel Scorpie – Published Wednesday, March 25, 2026, 2:36 p.m. / Updated Wednesday, March 25, 2026, 2:40 p.m.
Inter midfielder Hakan Calhanoglu (32) spoke to Turkish television about his season under Cristi Chivu, giving an interview right at Appiano Gentile's training base.
Vincenzo Montella's national team captain had nothing but praise for Chivu: “Our coach changed at the beginning of the season. I think he had a positive impact on the team. He was already at the club, training Inter's young players, so I knew him.
He is a very approachable person, very warm, and the team accepted him immediately. He is very open, and that was a positive thing. It also has the advantage of giving everyone a chance, even young players.
The previous technician had a different, more experience-oriented philosophy. Everyone has their own way of seeing things, but we're doing well now, thank God.” commented Hakan Calhanoglu.
Calhanoglu: “Having a Turkish passport can be a disadvantage in Europe, because our value is not always recognized”
The Turkish midfielder went back in time to his transfer from Milan to Inter: “It wasn't easy to establish myself at first. First I had to prove my worth. Even the Inter fans had their doubts. I remember my first game: a goal and an assist, a beautiful goal.
Hakan Calhanoglu, in the derby won by Inter, 3-2 with Juventus / Photo: Imago
I was excited; it was an important moment in my career. I think I handled the situation well. The fact that I arrived free of contract maybe helped me mentally.
Sometimes having a Turkish passport can be a disadvantage in Europe, because our value is not always recognized. But today, players like Kenan (nr – Yildiz) or Arda (nr – Guler) are getting due recognition for their performances, and this is very important.
I think I contributed to this change as well. When I chose the Turkish national team, I thought that it could be an example for other young players who grew up abroad. And indeed, that's exactly what happened: many chose Turkey, even some who later regretted not doing it.”
“I have more control of the game. I help both offensively and defensively, I like to take possessions. The style has changed”
Hakan Calhanoglu also revealed how he transformed after moving to Inter: “When I arrived here, I was playing in a different position. With Inzaghi, I adapted to a more withdrawn role in the middle. At first, it was Brozovic, then after he left, the coach offered me the position.
Hakan Calhanoglu (left) and Irfan Can Kahveci (right), in Turkey's new kit / Photo source: Instagram
I accepted, I place myself a little further from the goal, but I have more control over the game. I help both offensively and defensively, I also like to get into possessions. My style has changed.
The Inter fans thought of a chant for me. The first time, I was surprised. I'm not Italian but they showed me so much affection. It means I did something good.
They accepted me, and the relationship of respect and love grew. In Italy, the supporters are very important and I feel that I am too. Thank God, the work I'm doing is paying off,” concluded the midfielder.
