Chivu: ‘Inter have an obligation to think big, can’t underestimate Union SG’

Cristian Chivub says that Inter have an ‘obligation to think big’ as they prepare for a busy week in which they will face Union Saint-Gilloise in the Champions League before taking on Napoli in a top of the table clash in Serie A at the weekend. 

Chivu spoke to the press on Monday evening ahead of his side’s test against Union SG in the Champions League on Tuesday evening. 

After recording back-to-back defeats in Serie A in early September, the Nerazzurri have gone on to win six consecutive matches across all competitions, most recently defeating Roma to draw level on points with them and Napoli near the top of the Serie A standings. 

“We’ve always said it, we have an obligation to think big. It’s a long road, but we have a club that supports us and we have to be the best version of ourselves in all competitions,” Chivu said during his pre-match press conference ahead of Union SG on Monday night. 

“We have to maintain the enthusiasm and avoid any missteps. We’ve put in good performances and we have the ambition to move forwards. There could also be some negative moments.” 

Chivu was asked if either Ange-Yoan Bonny or Francesco Pio Esposito could start in the Champions League. 

“For me, there are no starters, I’ve been saying it for months. I trust all the players I have available, everyone can play from the start,” Chivu said. 

“I’m happy to have such a strong group at my disposal. Everyone can make a contribution to our games and to our journey.” 

And when asked about Lautaro Martinez and Marcus Thuram, Chivu said: “Lautaro is fine, and has not had any more problems than the ones he had before Roma. He’s got over his cold and has had a good recovery. 

“Marcus needs a few more days, I don’t know what to tell you. We are trying to get him back as soon as possible. Apparently he won’t be there for Napoli.” 

Assessing Union Saint-Gilloise, Chivu said: “The team is very aggressive and wants to press high. I don’t know if they’ll change against us. I don’t think they’ll change their identity, though. 

“They’ve already claimed three points in the Champions League and are top of their league. They beat PSV and the game against Newcastle was a one-off. 

Chivu was asked if he thinks tomorrow’s Champions League match is more important than their Serie A clash against high-flying Napoli at the weekend. 

Chivu replied: “We think game by game, and we can’t underestimate the Champions League. Reaching the final was no small feat. We know what it’s like to play in the Champions League, and we have to honour our history.”