´Comparisons cannot be made´, says Inter boss Chivu after Mourinho comments

Cristian Chivu played down Jose Mourinho’s comments comparing the recently crowned Serie A champions with the Portuguese’s treble-winning team of 2010.

Mourinho led the Nerazzuri to glory in Serie A, the Champions League and Coppa Italia in his final season at San Siro, before departing for Real Madrid.

The veteran coach claimed earlier this week that none of Inter’s current crop, who could complete the double with victory over Lazio in the Coppa Italia showpiece on Wednesday, would have made it into his starting XI.

Chivu, who was part of Mourinho’s side 16 years ago, insisted it was impossible to make comparisons, but said both sides brought “joy to their fans”.

When asked about his former manager’s comments, the Romanian said: “Ask him.

“I was fortunate enough to play in the other team. I am sure comparisons between two generations cannot be made; many things have changed in 16 years.

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“But this Inter, like the 2010 side, brings joy to its fans, and that is the most important thing. Let’s talk about the Scudetto won this year and the Coppa Italia final, rather than numbers and polls.”

Inter will play Lazio in the midweek Coppa Italia final, and the Nerazzurri warmed up with a commanding 3-0 win over the Biancocelesti on Saturday.

Lautaro Martinez played a starring role with a goal and an assist, but Chivu praised the collective performance of his team.

“It is the merit of everyone, not just Lautaro,” he added. “He puts in soul, professionalism and seriousness and gives everything he has.

“But it is also the merit of his team-mates who follow him, especially in doing certain things. It is a fantastic group and team living something special. I am happy for them because they deserve it.”