Inter Milan consider Cristian Chivu for caretaker role amid Simone Inzaghi’s uncertain future

Inter Milan have lined up the club’s U-19 coach Cristian Chivu as a surprise replacement for first-team manager Simone Inzaghi.

Inzaghi’s future has been further thrown into doubt following their lacklustre defeat against Fiorentina on Saturday, which extended Inter’s struggles this season.

There has been heavy speculation regarding the former Lazio manager’s position at San Siro, and the setback against La Viola has only exacerbated the situation.

Chances are looking bleak for Inzaghi’s continuity beyond the summer, but he might even get the sack sooner than expected, with results continuing to be on a downward spiral.

As reported by La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Nerazzurri are eyeing Primavera manager Chivu for the caretaker role in the event of Inzaghi’s departure.

An Inter legend and a key figure of the club’s heydays before the 2010s, Chivu has been overseeing the Primavera side since 2021.

Two more former players Cambiasso and Zenga are on the wishlist of the Nerazzurri for the interim role.

Inter have planned to bring in a new long-term manager in the summer, with Antonio Conte and Roberto de Zerbi among the favoured names.

Conte was recently sacked by Tottenham Hotspur after falling out with the players and the club following his explosive interview.

The Italian gaffer has been linked with a return to San Siro, and his previous stint was a highly successful one, with the Nerazzurri winning the Serie A title in 2020/21.

On the other hand, De Zerbi’s name has been strongly recommended by Inter’s hierarchy to rebuild the squad and change the fortunes around.

However, Inter would have to pay a considerable sum to release him from his contract at Brighton & Hove Albion.

Bologna’s head coach Thiago Motta, who has impressed with his managerial skills this season, is also a potential contender but the Nerazzurri face competition from Paris Saint-Germain.

Inzaghi is facing a race against time to save his job, and any further slip-ups could mark his end.