Chivu reassuring: ‘Bastoni will give all for Inter, whether it’s for 2 months or 2 years’
Cristian Chivu hints Alessandro Bastoni could leave Inter and Italy for Barcelona after the World Cup controversy. ‘I’m sure he will give over 100 per cent for us, whether it’s for two months or a couple of years.’
The break for international duty saw many Inter players go off to represent their countries, but five returned with the deep disappointment of failing to book Italy’s ticket to the World Cup.
In particular, Bastoni was lambasted in the media and by fans for his red card in the play-off final to Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Chivu tries to get Bastoni back on his feet
“I am dealing with great champions, above all on a human level, who have always shown they can get back on their feet after bitter blows,” insisted Chivu in his press conference.
“They learned that being part of a group in this squad means every now and then you stumble and don’t reach your objective, what counts is character, how you react and what you do for your teammates, respect for a club that represents the love of the fans.
“The supporters too know that disappointment is part of the game. I am not worried, because in these eight months they showed that this is a group of real men who I can trust.”
Bastoni had already been jeered by fans of other clubs in every game since admitting he simulated to get Pierre Kalulu sent off for Juventus, and urged the Federation to drop him from the Italy squad.
The costly red card against Bosnia therefore only added fuel to the fire.
“They all learned from the errors of the past and what matters is who we are today, and we always lift our heads up. I am talking about Bastoni here too, because when I last saw him, he was on crutches, and then was training with the Nazionale three days later,” said Chivu.
“These players accept all criticism, despite the difficult moments. When it comes to Bastoni, I know that football is lacking in gratitude, that people are always quick to point the finger of blame, to seek out things that have nothing to do with Alessandro’s true nature and values.
“What matters in football is respect for teammates, the work that you do, and what you are as a person. He is sad about what happened, but pleased to receive the support of his teammates both in the Nazionale and at Inter.
“He stepped up in a difficult moment and gave all he had to represent his country, trying to secure the dream of the Italian fans. Despite being nowhere near fully fit, as a man of sport, he recognised what it means and took responsibility.
“His teammates showed love and respect, because they know that despite not being in perfect condition, you did your bit.”
Does the coach have any advice for Bastoni?
“I just have to help him feel calm and confident. I cannot control the future or what he might do, but I know he is very happy to be part of this squad. His future is up to him to decide, just like all of us are responsible for our choices, but while he is here, I’m sure he will give over 100 per cent for us, whether it’s for two months or a couple of years.
“I’d be happy if he did stay, and if I stayed, because football is all about uncertainty. Whatever he decides to do, I am convinced the world of football will continue to enjoy a player of great quality.”
Not just Bastoni, but also Federico Dimarco and Francesco Pio Esposito were criticised for their performances for Italy.
“It isn’t the fault of the Inter players if the Nazionale failed. You can win or lose games, but you give your best and do your duty. I asked Pio if he wanted to take the penalty and he said yes. That’s enough in my mind to take on the responsibility, even if young and in such an important game.
“He will miss many more penalties in his career, I’m sure, but the important thing is to have courage and step up. It’s a good sign for us and for the Nazionale that Pio felt ready to take that responsibility.”