Chivu Explains Why Provedel and Mkhitaryan Deserve to Start for Inter Against Fiorentina

FolioPitch.com – 25 October 2026 | Cristian Chivu has revealed the reasoning behind his decision to hand Ivan Provedel his Inter debut and recall Henrikh Mkhitaryan to the starting XI for Sunday’s Serie A lunchtime clash with Fiorentina at San Siro. Speaking to DAZN before kick-off, the Nerazzurri boss outlined Chivu Why Provedel and Mkhitaryan deserve to start in Inter vs Fiorentina, citing merit, recent form, and the need for squad rotation as the driving factors behind his selection.

Provedel, who joined Inter as the second-choice goalkeeper, replaced Josep Martinez between the posts. Martinez had started every game so far this season, but Chivu felt the time was right to give the former Lazio man his opportunity. “Provedel deserves to start after this week, when his child was also born, and for the work he’s done these months, supporting Pepo too,” Chivu explained. “From here to the end of the season, he’ll help us rotate.” The decision is a significant show of faith in Provedel, who has had to remain patient while Martinez held down the number one spot.

The goalkeeper’s inclusion is not merely a sentimental gesture. Chivu emphasized that Provedel’s professionalism and daily effort have earned him the nod, and that the rotation will be crucial as Inter compete on multiple fronts. The Nerazzurri are chasing the Serie A title and also have Champions League commitments, meaning squad depth will be tested in the coming months. Provedel’s experience and quality provide Chivu with a reliable alternative, and the coach’s comments underline Chivu Why Provedel and Mkhitaryan deserve to start in Inter vs Fiorentina as part of a broader strategy to keep his squad fresh and motivated.

In midfield, Mkhitaryan was preferred to start alongside Nicolò Barella and Hakan Calhanoglu. The Armenian veteran was instrumental in Inter’s 1-0 Champions League win over Shakhtar Donetsk on Wednesday, providing a brilliant assist for Carlos Augusto while the team was down to ten men. Chivu was quick to dismiss any suggestion that age played a role in his thinking. “I don’t look at the ID, nor at who was born earlier or later,” he said. “The last few times he was on the pitch, he added something we missed, and he deserves to start.” The coach’s words highlight Chivu Why Provedel and Mkhitaryan deserve to start in Inter vs Fiorentina as a merit-based decision rather than one influenced by reputation or seniority.

Mkhitaryan’s recent performances have indeed been impactful. His ability to drift between the lines, link play, and contribute defensively has given Inter a different dimension in midfield. With the team needing to break down a well-organized Fiorentina side, the Armenian’s creativity and experience could prove decisive. Chivu’s trust in him is a clear signal that form and contribution, not age, dictate selection under his management.

Turning to the opposition, Chivu was full of respect for Fiorentina. “It’s a hard game. Fiorentina are a well-trained team,” he noted. “Recently, they’ve earned less than they deserved. They have many things that can make you struggle; they do many things well. We can’t choose; we must leave everything we have on the field.” The Viola have impressed despite inconsistent results, and Inter will need to be at their best to secure all three points.

The stakes are high for Inter. With Lazio beating Parma 2-1 on Saturday, the Nerazzurri need a win to catch the Biancocelesti at the top of the table. A victory would not only keep pace with the leaders but also reinforce the squad’s belief in Chivu’s rotation policy. The coach’s decision to start Provedel and Mkhitaryan is a calculated gamble that underscores Chivu Why Provedel and Mkhitaryan deserve to start in Inter vs Fiorentina as a reflection of his managerial philosophy: reward those who earn it, regardless of status.

As the teams took to the pitch at San Siro, all eyes were on the two players handed starting roles. Provedel’s debut and Mkhitaryan’s inclusion were the talking points before kick-off, and their performances will go a long way to determining whether Chivu’s faith was justified. In a season where squad management is paramount, the Inter boss is making it clear that every player has a role to play. The message is simple: perform in training, take your chances, and you will be rewarded. For Provedel and Mkhitaryan, that message has been heard loud and clear. Chivu Why Provedel and Mkhitaryan deserve to start in Inter vs Fiorentina is not just a selection explanation; it is a statement of intent for the remainder of the campaign.