Inter manager Cristian Chivu says his side must “write important pages in the history of the club” when they begin their Champions League campaign against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Inter face one of the most difficult opening fixtures available in European football, returning to the stadium where Jose Mourinho guided them to one of the greatest victories in their history in 2010.

Mourinho will be in the opposing dugout this time after recently returning to Real Madrid, while Chivu takes charge of Inter in his second Champions League campaign as the club’s manager.

Chivu was part of the Inter team that won the treble under Mourinho and has maintained a close personal relationship with the Portuguese coach. However, he insists his own football philosophy has developed independently.

“We have a duty to write important pages in the history of this club,” Chivu told reporters at his pre-match news conference.

“In recent years, this club has reached an important level in the Champions League, and we must write more pages in its history.”

The former Inter defender also reflected on his return to the Santiago Bernabeu, which he said had changed significantly since his playing days.

“My feelings about this stadium? It has become much more beautiful. Today it is far more modern, and it is a pleasure for everyone to have the chance to play a match in this stadium,” he said.

Chivu described Mourinho as an important figure in his life and recalled the support he received from him during a deeply challenging period.

“Mourinho is a special person for me. Meeting him was a stroke of luck. He helped me during the most difficult moment of my life, and I will never forget that,” he added.

Despite their strong relationship, Chivu rejected the suggestion that Mourinho had directly shaped his tactical approach.

“I have never copied anyone. I have my own idea of football, which I developed when I was a player and during my years in the youth sector, where I had the opportunity to try things that help me during these years,” he said.

Inter’s task in Madrid is made even harder by their record at the Santiago Bernabeu. The Nerazzurri have not won at the ground for six decades, a statistic Chivu acknowledged while insisting his side must not abandon its principles.

“Playing at the Santiago Bernabeu is not easy for anyone. It has been 60 years since Inter won here,” said the manager.

“Many teams have struggled to win here. We will give our very best, but without changing our identity. We want to control the game, and we want to show that we have developed. There is no perfect way to face Real Madrid.”

Chivu was also asked whether new arrivals such as Jones and Stones could be given starting roles. He emphasised instead that every member of the squad could have an important part to play during the match.

“What matters is not who starts, but the 16 players who have the chance to contribute to the game. What happened in the first three league matches is evidence of that. Tomorrow you will see my selections and the decisions I make,” he concluded.