Cristian Chivu bid farewell to Parma on Monday as he prepares to return to Inter Milan, this time as head coach, succeeding Simone Inzaghi.
The former Romanian international, who enjoyed a decorated playing career at Inter—winning three Serie A titles and the 2010 Champions League—led Parma to Serie A survival in his debut senior managerial role.
“I thank the club, staff, players and fans for believing in me and our project,” Chivu wrote on Instagram. “Together we overcame obstacles and wrote a page in Parma’s history that will always remain in my heart.”
Parma later confirmed his departure, expressing gratitude for the turnaround he led after taking over from Fabio Pecchia in February.
This marks Chivu’s return to Inter after a spell coaching their youth sides, which he left last summer. He has reportedly signed a two-year contract worth €2.5 million per season.
Inter turned to Chivu after failing to secure Cesc Fabregas from Como, opting for the relatively inexperienced coach ahead of the upcoming Club World Cup.
Inzaghi exited the club last week following a disappointing end to the season, which included a 5-0 Champions League final loss to PSG, missing out on the Serie A title to Napoli on the final day, and elimination from the Italian Cup by AC Milan.
Chivu’s first test as Inter manager comes next week at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California, where they face Mexico’s Monterrey in the Club World Cup.
