The Nerazzurri coach spoke ahead of Saturday’s match against Cremonese: “Diouf is training well and will get his chances. We’re a team that’s growing.”

The growth is evident, both in results and self-esteem. Cristian Chivu promised the club five wins before the October break and so far he has kept his word: he just needs to beat the surprising Cremonese, who have never lost and have the same 9 points in the standings. As coach, he expects Inter not to let him down at the most important moment. “We’ve found a balance. That’s what satisfies me the most. We attack better and concede less. The important thing in football is first and foremost not to concede goals. If we can do that, it means we’re organized as a team.”

Thuram’s absence will force him to rethink his attacking formula, as Marcus had always played from the start: “I’m sorry about this injury, which fortunately is not very serious. I replaced him in Cagliari precisely to have him fresh against Slavia. In fact, he was fine. Unfortunately, these things happen in sport.” The main candidate to replace him alongside Lautaro is Bonny, who would be the 21st starter this season: “Sooner or later, it will be his turn. But there’s no doubt about his quality. Bonny is an extraordinary guy, compared to the average footballer, and he will get his chance. In fact, he already has because he always comes on in games. I think he’s very happy with the opportunity he’s had since arriving at Inter.“ Chivu is also not giving anything away about the rotation between goalkeepers: ”The one I think is best at the time will play. There isn’t one goalkeeper for the league and one for the Champions League. My players have to earn their place each time. No one should feel secure, and it’s essential to put your ego aside for the good of the team.“

condition—  Inter also seems to have improved from an athletic standpoint. Is that due to good training or rotation? ”It’s true, the team is more brilliant even though it can’t train much because of the many games. We have a staff that is sensitive to this issue. The important thing is to always raise the bar in order to win.“ Diouf is not yet in the rotation: ”But he is growing. He is the latest arrival and his teammates have helped him a lot to integrate. I have faith in him, he will soon get the minutes he deserves.”