Inter Milan Experiments with New Formation in Coppa Italia Draw

Cristian Chivu's tactical adjustments raise questions about Inter's flexibility ahead of crucial Milan derby.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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Inter Milan's 0-0 draw against Como in the Coppa Italia semi-final saw coach Cristian Chivu deploy a formation and strategy 'never seen before this season.' Forced to adapt due to squad limitations, Chivu featured two creative midfielders supporting young striker Francesco Pio Esposito. The tactical shift, which also included defensive adjustments, highlights Inter's willingness to experiment and find solutions even when facing personnel challenges.

Why it matters

The timing of this tactical experimentation is particularly intriguing, with the high-stakes Serie A clash against rivals AC Milan looming. Inter currently hold a 10-point lead in the league, but the Milan derby is always a crucial match. The question now is whether Chivu will stick with the new formation or revert to Inter's tried-and-true 3-5-2 system for the derby.

The details

With key players Lautaro Martinez and Ange-Yoan Bonny unavailable, and Marcus Thuram out of form, Chivu opted for a system featuring two creative midfielders supporting Francesco Pio Esposito. This departure from Inter's usual approach highlights a willingness to experiment and locate solutions even when facing personnel challenges. Chivu also altered Inter's defensive approach, instructing his players to press Como 'man for man.' However, this wasn't without its challenges, as the team was 'a bit slow with our wing-back closing on their left-back.' Como's tactical setup, with forwards dropping deeper to exploit space, further complicated matters.

  • Inter Milan's recent 0-0 draw against Como took place in the Coppa Italia semi-final.
  • The Serie A clash against rivals AC Milan is looming in the next four days.

The players

Cristian Chivu

The head coach of Inter Milan who deployed the new formation and strategy in the Coppa Italia match.

Francesco Pio Esposito

The 20-year-old forward who was thrust into the spotlight as the focal point of Inter's attack in the absence of established strikers.

Lautaro Martinez

An Inter Milan player who was unavailable for the Coppa Italia match.

Ange-Yoan Bonny

An Inter Milan player who was unavailable for the Coppa Italia match.

Marcus Thuram

An Inter Milan player who was out of form for the Coppa Italia match.

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What they’re saying

“It's the first time I played with a pair of creative midfielders supporting the striker.”

— Cristian Chivu, Inter Milan Head Coach (Sport Mediaset)

“We've got four days before the derby, we'll see who is available, and then decide what to do for that match.”

— Cristian Chivu, Inter Milan Head Coach (Sport Mediaset)

“We must make the best of the situation and utilize the available players effectively.”

— Cristian Chivu, Inter Milan Head Coach (Sport Mediaset)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

Cristian Chivu's tactical flexibility and willingness to experiment with new formations could prove crucial as Inter Milan navigate a challenging schedule and chase both domestic titles. The success of the new system against Como raises questions about whether Chivu will continue to deploy it in the high-stakes Milan derby.