Chivu on Inter future, Lautaro Martinez focus and Mkhitaryan situation

Cristian Chivu explains why Lautaro Martinez is not among the Inter players rested for the final game with Bologna, while Henrikh Mkhitaryan’s future is still undecided.

It kicks off at the Stadio Dall’Ara at 17.00 UK time (18.00 CEST).

You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens from this game and Lazio vs. Pisa on the Liveblog.

The Nerazzurri end their hugely successful campaign, which saw them secure the Double of Scudetto and Coppa Italia trophies.

“We have to think of the next game, even if we need a vacation and to unplug a little, as it has been a long season, so it’s right that we get rest,” Chivu told DAZN Italia.

“We’ve already planned the future, we want it to be at the standards of this great club.”

There are several youngsters in the squad today, such as Matteo Cocchi, Mattia Mosconi and Gabriele Re Cecconi.

“The Inter youth academy has always been very strong, there are good people running it, a scouting network, so it’s right that those of a certain quality manage to train with us and be part of the senior squad. It’s partly a reward, partly because it’s only fair they get an opportunity.”

Several Inter players who are going to be at the World Cup have been given the week off for extra vacation time, namely Hakan Calhanoglu, Marcus Thuram, Denzel Dumfries and Manuel Akanji.

However, Lautaro Martinez is not only involved, but in the starting XI as he tries to lock down his Capocannoniere title.

“He is the captain, he has the best attitude towards the squad, but he also needs minutes in his legs seeing as he was out for two months and wants to be a protagonist at the upcoming World Cup,” explained Chivu.

“We hope all our players will do well in the World Cup, they gave so much to Inter this season.”

Mkhitaryan is on the bench today and it could well be his final game for Inter, as the midfielder is considering his next step.

That could be retirement, a new Inter contract, or the decision to go elsewhere to see out his playing career.

“A player like Mkhi means so much for his professionalism, his focus, attitude. It is not easy for all the players whose contracts are running down, it is not easy, especially at a certain age, but they gave their all and were totally at the disposal of the squad.

“We have not yet spoken to him with the club, so we’ll have the chance to do it next week,” concluded Chivu.