Inter boss Cristian Chivu criticises Italian media after Napoli comeback

Inter manager Cristian Chivu has accused the Italian media of lacking professional ethics after his side overturned a two-goal deficit to beat Napoli in a thrilling Serie A encounter.

The Nerazzurri came from 2-0 down to win 3-2 at home in the third round of the league season, securing their third victory in three matches. All five goals were scored in the second half, adding to the drama of a match Chivu described as an advertisement for Italian football.

“This match is an advertisement for Italian football,” the Romanian told DAZN.

Chivu also praised the officials for the way they handled the game and for allowing play to continue without unnecessary stoppages.

“I want to praise the match officials and the way they managed the game, as well as their decision to allow play to continue whenever possible. There is no time-wasting. The players know that if they go down, the game will carry on without waiting for them,” he said.

The Inter manager then turned his attention to the criticism his team received last season over their performances in high-profile matches, including their meeting with Bodø/Glimt.

“Inter’s record in big matches? I am tired of what I heard last season. Inter were constantly criticised because of their head-to-head games and the match against Bodø/Glimt,” Chivu said.

“For me, every league match is a head-to-head contest. Negative stories attract readers, viewers and clicks. It would be good for Italian football if there were a little more professional ethics.”

The result marked the first time in history that Inter have beaten Napoli after falling two goals behind. It also extended Napoli’s difficult start, with Antonio Conte’s side suffering a second consecutive defeat after losing 2-1 to Como in their previous match.

Inter, meanwhile, moved to the top of the Serie A table with nine points. They had already beaten Monza and Cagliari before producing their dramatic comeback against Napoli, and are the only side to have won all three of their matches at this stage.

Several other teams could draw level with Inter if they win their games, but the Milan club currently lead the standings on goal difference and maximum points.

Napoli remain on three points and sit 10th in the table.

The comeback also revived memories of Inter’s “Pazza Inter” identity, a nickname linked to the club’s reputation for producing unexpected and dramatic victories. “Pazza Inter” was once the name of the club’s official anthem because of such remarkable scenarios, although former Inter manager Antonio Conte later decided to end its use.

For Chivu, however, the significance of the result went beyond the spectacular turnaround. He used the match to defend his players, praise the flow of the contest and call for a more balanced approach from Italian football coverage.