Inter Milan boss Chivu praises Mourinho ahead of Real Madrid showdown: ‘A special person’
Inter Milan coach Cristian Chivu praised former manager Jose Mourinho as a 'special person' ahead of a Champions League match against Real Madrid. Chivu reflected on their time together at Inter Milan, noting Mourinho's unique ability to instill a winning mentality in his players.
Why it matters
The comments highlight the enduring influence of high-profile managers on their former players who transition into coaching roles.
Inter Milan head coach Cristian Chivu has described Jose Mourinho as "a special person" ahead of Tuesday's UEFA Champions League meeting with Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu .
The Romanian spent two seasons playing under Mourinho at Inter between 2008 and 2010, a period that culminated in the club winning the Champions League at the very same stadium in 2010.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Chivu reflected warmly on his former manager.
"He's a special person who I was lucky enough to meet in my life. He gave me important help during a difficult period of my life, and I'll never forget that," Chivu said, as quoted by Mundo Deportivo .
Chivu also praised Mourinho's ability to influence the teams he manages and instil his mentality in his players.
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