Inter Coach Chivu: Selfishness Isn’t Part of Pio Esposito’s Vocabulary

FolioPitch.com – 11 October 2026 | Inter coach Chivu: Selfishness isn’t part of Pio Esposito’s vocabulary. That was the clear message from the Nerazzurri boss after his side’s commanding 3-0 victory over Parma at San Siro, a result that sent Inter three points clear at the top of Serie A ahead of Sunday’s fixtures. Chivu, speaking to DAZN and later in his post-match press conference, was effusive in his praise for the young forward, whose selfless running and unselfish play were central to Inter’s dominant first-half display.

The match was effectively over inside 31 minutes, with Hakan Calhanoglu converting a penalty won by Esposito and Marcus Thuram adding a goal that owed much to the youngster’s intelligent build-up play. But it was Esposito’s overall contribution that truly caught the eye of his manager. “His main characteristic is generosity,” Chivu said. “Selfishness isn’t part of his vocabulary. He works for the team, he works well, he counter-presses too, he reacted and he was able to do certain things. When you lose the ball and go and win it back, you’ve also done excellent mental work. He has room to improve. He’s a lad who works hard and puts himself at the group’s disposal, and the group sees him as someone who will give us an important hand, as he has so far.”

Those words echoed the sentiment that Inter coach Chivu: Selfishness isn’t part of Pio Esposito’s vocabulary, a phrase that perfectly encapsulates the ethos the Romanian tactician is instilling in his squad. The 3-0 win, wrapped up in just over half an hour, was a testament to the collective spirit Chivu has fostered since taking charge, and Esposito’s performance was a prime example of that philosophy in action.

Chivu also admitted that the three-week international break had been an unknown quantity, but he was delighted with how his players responded. “It was an unknown after three weeks off. That had never happened before, and we didn’t know how it would go. But over these weeks the lads worked well. They had enthusiasm and were keen to do certain training sessions, and those who stayed here made their contribution. I’m happy with the energy, the quality we showed and how quickly we adapted to the opponent, because we didn’t have much information on how they might play. I gave minutes to those who were behind, and I’m happy to have rested those who gave a lot for their national teams.”

The coach also had positive words for Djed Spence, who made his debut after a month on the sidelines. Chivu warned against expecting too much too soon, with Club Brugge visiting on Tuesday. “Let’s enjoy his first 25 minutes, and not forget that he’s only been training with the team for a week. You can’t ask too much of him or you’ll push him into the red. Hopefully, by playing and training every day, his condition will improve. I’m pleased to see him on the pitch after what he’s been through this month while unavailable. Today San Siro gave him a shot of adrenaline, and that will help all of us.”

Calhanoglu was spotted with ice after coming off, but Chivu insisted there was no problem. “I didn’t see the ice. No, he’s fine. He played a great hour to improve his condition. We need everyone for the tough run ahead of us. Tonight was the right moment to play him, and we’ve been forced to make these kinds of choices. We’re happy with his response and with the others’.”

Carlos Augusto, again deployed on the left of the back three, also earned praise. “Not just this season. Last year and in previous seasons too, he’s shown his qualities as a wing-back and as a centre-back in a back three. He has physical strength and energy in duels, but also when overlapping. He has an impressive long-range shot. We’re happy to have him with us, and to have a player who understands his qualities and puts them at the service of the group.”

Federico Dimarco was regularly seen drifting over to the right, and Chivu explained the freedom he gives his players. “It’s about how we occupy the pitch. If someone rotates over to his side, he’s free to come inside. Sometimes he plays as a striker, sometimes as a mezzala. Today he put in a cross from the right wing-back position. He’s also good at counter-pressing ferociously, but he needs to get back into position more quickly. We have players evolved enough to adapt to a back four too. My players are evolved, and they’re enjoying themselves.”

Chivu also had words of sympathy for Carlos Cuesta, sacked by Parma despite winning his last game against Genoa, and backed Alberto Gilardino to succeed. “I’m always sorry when a coach is sent away, just as I’m happy for the one who comes in. That’s a coach’s life: you know you’re not on a permanent contract, and you’re judged on a lot of things. We’re talking about two great coaches. I’m sorry for Cuesta, but I’m happy for Gila, who has an opportunity at a club that wants to do certain things. I’m convinced he’ll deliver an important season, partly because Parma deserve it.”

In conclusion, Inter’s victory over Parma was not just about the three points, but about the spirit and selflessness that Chivu is cultivating. The phrase Inter coach Chivu: Selfishness isn’t part of Pio Esposito’s vocabulary has now become a rallying cry for the Nerazzurri faithful, who see in Esposito a symbol of the team-first mentality that could drive Inter to silverware this season. With tough tests ahead, including the visit of Club Brugge, Chivu will need every player to embrace that same ethos. If they do, Inter’s position at the top of Serie A may become a familiar sight.