Inter manager Cristian Chivu is implementing tactical adjustments during the team’s pre-season training camp in Germany, according to reports from the camp. While maintaining the 3-5-2 formation that has been a staple of the club’s recent success, Chivu is exploring variations and assessing player suitability as Inter prepares to defend its Serie A title.
A key focus for Chivu is increasing the team’s verticality, aiming for a more aggressive and direct style of play originating from the midfield. Aleksandar Stankovic, son of former Inter player Dejan Stankovic, is being groomed as the primary backup to Hakan Calhanoglu in the regista role, providing a fixed replacement for the Turkish international when unavailable. Last season, Chivu utilized several players to cover for Calhanoglu’s absences, but the appointment of Stankovic offers a more consistent solution.
On the flanks, Chivu is experimenting with Andy Diouf, deploying the young Frenchman as a right-sided wingback, a position previously occupied by Denzel Dumfries. Diouf impressed during a recent friendly match, scoring twice and demonstrating promising attacking contributions. Similarly, Carlos Augusto is positioned as the backup to Alessandro Bastoni in the left center-back role, offering a reliable option despite not being a regular starter. Luis Henrique has also been trialed on the left wing, providing further tactical flexibility.
In goal, Inter has secured both Pepo Martinez and Ivan Provedel. Martinez has been promoted to the starting position following the departure of Yann Sommer, while Provedel arrived in June for a fee of €3 million. Chivu intends to rotate the two goalkeepers to manage workloads throughout a demanding season with numerous commitments. The manager aims to avoid overexertion and ensure consistent performance in the goalkeeping position, something he struggled to achieve last season. The club continues to assess other transfer targets, but securing goalkeeping depth is currently a priority.
