Inter Win Ugly but Rise to Serie A Summit Under Chivu

Inter’s Gritty Style Delivers Results Despite Lack of Flair

Inter’s 2-0 win over Lazio at San Siro typified a new era under coach Christian Chivu—one where substance decisively trumps style. The once-flamboyant Nerazzurri have embraced a more pragmatic approach, and the results speak for themselves: Inter are now joint leaders of Serie A, level on points with Roma. This transformation, though not always pleasing on the eye, has drawn praise from pundits like Paolo Di Canio, who sees greatness emerging from this gritty shift.

Inter Win Ugly: Substance Over Style

From the opening whistle, Inter set the tempo against a struggling Lazio side. Lautaro Martinez, desperate to end a five-game Serie A goal drought, struck just three minutes in. His finish was far from spectacular—a scuffed, awkward shot that curved brilliantly into the top corner. Yet, as Di Canio noted, its beauty lay in its effectiveness, not its appearance.

Martinez’s goal offered relief and sent a clear signal: this Inter values results over aesthetics. Ange-Yoan Bonny later doubled the lead, capitalizing on Lazio’s defensive frailties and confirming Inter’s dominance. Throughout, Chivu’s men displayed discipline, compactness, and a ruthless edge—qualities previously overshadowed by their flair.

Paolo Di Canio: Inter’s New Identity and Winning Mentality

Di Canio, speaking on Sky, described Inter’s current approach as “aesthetics going to hell.” He elaborated: “Sometimes, to succeed, you must abandon beauty. Chivu has instilled a winning mentality, focusing on discipline and efficiency.” The pundit believes that, after last season’s painful Scudetto near-miss, Inter’s players now feel a responsibility not just to entertain but to win—however necessary.

The psychological evolution is evident. No longer reliant solely on technical brilliance, Inter now thrives on grit and tactical intelligence. Di Canio contrasted Chivu’s methods with previous managers, underscoring the clarity and mental fortitude the new coach brings: “Chivu’s breaking the mould. There’s an awareness in this team I haven’t seen before.”

Lautaro Martinez: Leading by Example

Lautaro Martinez’s opener against Lazio was symbolic of Inter’s shift. Not a goal for the highlight reels, but a vital breakthrough. With four goals and two assists in 11 league matches, the Argentine striker remains the focal point of Inter’s attack, embodying the team’s new philosophy.

Midfield Challenges: Opportunity for Zielinski

The victory over Lazio was bittersweet, as Henrikh Mkhitaryan sustained a thigh injury that will sideline him for at least a month. With the influential playmaker out, Piotr Zielinski has the chance to step up. Zielinski’s high-energy pressing and creative spark were evident against Lazio, where he nearly scored before VAR intervened. As Inter navigates a congested schedule, Zielinski’s impact could be decisive.

Inter’s Gritty Approach: Key to Serie A Title Aspirations

Inter’s gritty approach under Chivu is reminiscent of classic Serie A-winning teams. They have now collected 27 points, remaining unbeaten in their last four league matches. The adaptation to a more structured and efficient style—where “sometimes beauty needs to go to hell”—may prove crucial in the months ahead.

Di Canio emphasizes that this evolution isn’t accidental: “Inter have continuity, management that learns from the past, and a sense of obligation born from last year’s disappointment. Chivu wants to remove the unnecessary and focus on what wins titles.”

Milan Derby and European Tests Await

Looking ahead, Inter face the first Milan Derby since both clubs jointly acquired San Siro—a symbolic new era. After the international break, their packed schedule continues with a critical Champions League match against Atletico Madrid. The upcoming fixtures will test both squad depth and the resilience of Chivu’s new philosophy.

Inter’s Pragmatism Sets a New Standard

The transformation under Chivu signals a new chapter for Inter. The club’s willingness to “win ugly” is not just a tactical adjustment but a cultural shift. Fans may miss the old flair, but the focus on results and mental strength could deliver the ultimate prize: the Serie A title. For more insights and updates on the beautiful game, visit our homepage for more news.

Opinion: Chivu’s Ruthless Inter Could Be Unstoppable

While some supporters may mourn the loss of Inter’s expressive style, it’s hard to argue with the results. Chivu’s focus on discipline, grit, and pragmatic decision-making is exactly what the Nerazzurri need to conquer both Italy and Europe this season. As injuries mount and the schedule intensifies, Inter’s new mentality—not their beauty—may prove their greatest weapon.