Calhanoglu reveals the main difference between Chivu & Inzaghi at Inter: ‘They have 2 different philosophies’
Hakan Calhanoglu has lifted the lid on life at Inter Milan in a wide-ranging interview with Turkish YouTube channel KAFA Sports, touching on the transition from Simone Inzaghi to Cristian Chivu, his controversial move from Milan to Inter, and the moment he was offered a contract by Barcelona.
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The Turkish international was candid about how quickly Chivu won over the Inter dressing room upon his appointment. “He was already coaching the Primavera, sometimes we would play training matches against his team,” Calhanoglu said, via TuttoMercatoWeb.
“When he started working with us, the squad accepted him very quickly. He also played for Inter, and that is undoubtedly an advantage. He gives opportunities to everyone, including the younger players. With Inzaghi it was different, they have two separate philosophies.”
Calhanoglu also revisited the moment that divided football fans in Milan, his decision to cross the city divide in the summer of 2021.
“It is a difficult step, first you have to prove your worth and your fitness, and then convince the fans that you will always give 100%,” he said. “My first match went well though, I scored and got an assist. I was genuinely excited for that game. It was a new experience, a transition in my career.”
Calhanoglu chose Inter over Barcelona & Juventus
He revealed that the move almost did not happen, with Barcelona and Juventus both having expressed interest before Inter made their late move.
“Inzaghi was calling continuously, he wanted me badly. At that moment I asked myself: ‘How can I go from Milan to Inter?’ My agent told me to sleep on it and call him in the morning. I accepted. It was my decision.”
His transformation into a regista, a role he inherited from Marcelo Brozovic, has been one of the defining stories of Inter’s recent success.
“When Brozovic left, the manager wanted to try me in that position. I accepted because it was different, but not by much. I move further from goal but have greater control of the game, it is both offensive and defensive, and I like helping the team. My game has changed and I enjoy new challenges.”
The bond he has forged with Inter’s supporters, who have dedicated a chant to him, remains a source of deep personal pride. “I was surprised,” he admitted. “Here you are ultimately a foreign player. This love is special, it means I have been successful. I am a very important part of this team and my efforts have been rewarded.”