Chivu Urges Inter Versatility Over Formations Ahead of Parma Clash
Inter coach Cristian Chivu has played down the importance of fixed formations ahead of Saturday’s home match against Parma, insisting that the team’s principles and the versatility of its players matter more than whether the starting shape contains three or four defenders.
Why it matters for Inter
| Fixture | Venue | Inter focus |
|---|---|---|
| Inter v Parma | San Siro | Applying Chivu’s flexible tactical approach |
Chivu’s comments underline his preference for adaptability rather than a rigid system. The Romanian said Inter’s success will depend on how the side occupies spaces, moves as a unit and uses the individual qualities within the squad.
He rejected the suggestion that either a back three or a back four provides an automatic route to results. In his view, no formation comes with a guarantee of winning, and Inter must be capable of changing when the match demands it.
The head coach pointed to Andy Diouf as an example of the type of flexibility he values. Chivu was pleased to see the midfielder used at left-back for France alongside Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele, believing the display showed a player willing to operate beyond one designated position.
Chivu drew on his own career to make the point. He recalled playing at left-back, centre-back and as a deep-lying midfielder, while Jose Mourinho once deployed him as an advanced winger before substituting him after 27 minutes. The message for his current players was clear: broader positional understanding can create more opportunities.
Sucic remains part of Inter’s plans
Chivu also responded to Zvonimir Boban’s concerns over Petar Sucic’s limited involvement. While acknowledging his respect for Boban and the context around the criticism, the Inter coach said Sucic remains an important player for both the present and the future.
Sucic was unable to complete the opening part of pre-season after the birth of his child, a factor in his preparation. Chivu nevertheless made clear that Inter are pleased to have the midfielder and remain confident in what he can offer.
Aleksandar Stankovic received similar backing from his coach. Chivu said mistakes are an unavoidable part of development for younger footballers and praised Stankovic’s serious work as he seeks to prove he belongs at this level.
Parma test at San Siro
Inter will have the opportunity to put Chivu’s approach into practice when Parma visit San Siro on Saturday. The selection and shape may vary, but the coach has made clear that the underlying demands will not: mobility, understanding and the ability to adapt during the game.
