Cristian Chivu says Inter are still not ready for the new season despite ending their pre-season tour with a 2-1 victory over Juventus in Perth.
Inter secured the win through another goal from Federico Dimarco and an angled drive by Andy Diouf, which caught Juventus goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio by surprise.
Francisco Conceicao pulled a goal back late on for Juventus, who had opportunities to level the match. Randal Kolo Muani and Kerim Alajbegovic both went close as Juventus finished the game strongly.
However, Inter head coach Chivu was unhappy with his side’s performance after half-time and said there was still work to do before the competitive campaign begins.
“We can always do better, at least we conclude the tour without injuries,” Chivu told Sky Sport Italia.
“We’re not ready yet, we need a few more weeks to get that sharpness. You talk about the first half performance, but I didn’t like the second half at all. Not one bit, especially the approach.
“We need to find more solutions. It’s true that during Juve’s best spell of the match, we scored our second goal, but we need to do better.”
The result brought Inter’s pre-season tour to a close, but Chivu insisted the outcome was less important than improving the team’s fitness and tactical understanding.
Juventus finished sixth in Serie A last season and have been active in strengthening their squad. Their additions include Kolo Muani, Alajbegovic and former Roma defender Zeki Celik.
Chivu believes Juventus will be a strong force during the forthcoming campaign, despite the result in Western Australia.
“I think they are a good team, who are well-drilled. Pre-season matches don’t count for much, we’re looking for new ideas and to improve fitness levels. Juve are strong and will certainly have their say this season,” added Chivu.
Diouf’s goal was another positive moment for both the player and his manager. The midfielder has continued to develop on the right wing, despite that not being his preferred position.
Chivu said he had seen encouraging progress from Diouf during the team’s recent preparations.
“I have seen improvements in the last few weeks, so I am happy with him.”
The Inter manager is also yet to settle on a fixed hierarchy in goal, with Josep Martinez and Ivan Provedel both competing for opportunities.
Chivu warned that no player could assume a permanent starting role, including the goalkeepers, and said everyone would need to contribute.
“There are no first choices or reserves, even in goal. Everyone has to give their contribution to the cause.”
