Aleksandar Kolarov, assistant coach to Cristian Chivu at Inter Milan, made a pointed remark during a post-match press conference on Sunday, referencing last season’s Champions League Final. He stated, “In football, it happens. The other teams were on the sofa watching what Inter would do.”
Inter are celebrating their 21st Scudetto after a 2-0 victory over Parma on Sunday. The Nerazzurri secured the title with three games remaining, achieving the win through goals from Marcus Thuram and Henrikh Mkhitaryan.
Inter coach Chivu did not address reporters at full-time, leaving the press conference to his staff, including assistant coach Kolarov. Kolarov fielded most of the questions from journalists.
“We believed in our job from the outset. The players were excellent in embracing our requests,” Kolarov commented. “It was easy to work with them. They immediately made themselves available and reacted positively after a few losses. I’d like to add a few words about last season’s Champions League Final loss. In football, these things happen.”
“Journalists labeled it a complete disaster, but other teams didn’t even reach that stage. Other teams were on the sofa, watching Inter’s progress. The players have already shown their commitment. We harnessed their quality, not just in footballing terms. It’s the character of the men that makes the difference.”
Inter appointed Chivu last summer after parting ways with Simone Inzaghi by mutual agreement following a 5-0 defeat in the Champions League Final against PSG.
Federico Dimarco also responded to critics, dedicating the title to “those who said I was finished.”