Reports in Italy claim that Barcelona have been left ‘disappointed’ by the fact that a potential deal for Inter’s Alessandro Bastoni seems to be fading away, but there are also suggestions that the financially-troubled LaLiga giants should priorities the signing of a new striker rather than a new defender.
Why Bastoni’s move to Barcelona is beginning to look unlikely
For several weeks, reports in Spain and Italy have linked Barcelona with a summer move for Italy international Bastoni, who was part of the squad that celebrated Inter’s 21st Serie A title over the weekend.
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Alessandro Bastoni of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates after being confirmed as Serie A champions following victory in the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Nerazzurri President Beppe Marotta has recently admitted: “I won’t deny there is interest from Barcelona (in Bastoni), but nothing concrete yet.”
However, according to the latest updates from La Gazzetta dello Sport, Barcelona’s interest in the left-sided defender is now beginning to fade away.
There are several reasons for this, but perhaps most importantly is the player’s apparent unwillingness to leave San Siro this summer.
La Gazzetta dello Sport claims that Inter value Bastoni in the region of €70m, but Barcelona had believed that they would be able to negotiate a discounted fee closer to €50m. In order for that to happen, though, they would have needed for Bastoni to express his desire to leave for Barcelona, thus forcing Inter’s hand into a sale.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, this has not happened, and the Nerazzurri have no intention of letting Bastoni go for a cut-price fee.
Whether a €50m or a €70m fee, it is still a significant investment for a club who continue to feel the impact of LaLiga’s strict financial rules. As a result of their recent financial troubles, the only new, permanent signings that Barcelona have been able to complete over the last two seasons have been Dani Olmo in a €58m deal, Joan Garcia in a €27m deal and youngster Roony Bardghji in a €2m deal.
Given that it has practically been a case of one new first-team signing per summer for Barcelona over the last two years, La Gazzetta dello Sport suggests that Bastoni would not be the best use of available funds during the upcoming transfer window.
BARCELONA, SPAIN – FEBRUARY 07: Robert Lewandowski of FC Barcelona celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the LaLiga EA Sports match between FC Barcelona and RCD Mallorca at Spotify Camp Nou on February 07, 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Judit Cartiel/Getty Images)
That is because Barcelona will likely need a new striker too, as the high-earning Robert Lewandowski, 37, is likely to leave the club this summer, which leaves Hansi Flick with a big gap to fill at centre-forward, which would likely be Barcelona’s priority rather than the signing of a luxury centre-back.
Ismael Kone has a €35 million release clause in his Sassuolo contract that is valid until the end of July, with Inter Milan, AC Milan and Juventus all understood to be among the clubs interested in signing one of Serie A’s standout performers this season.
According to Fabrizio Romano, via TuttoMercatoWeb, contacts between the parties are expected before the start of the World Cup, which Koné will feature in as a key member of the Canada squad.
Sassuolo CEO Giovanni Carnevali has also addressed the situation publicly. “I haven’t spoken with Inter or Milan about Koné, but it’s also true that we have had some requests from foreign clubs,” he said. “It’s possible that an Inter-Milan derby could emerge. We need to find the best situation for him, but at the same time for us too.”
PISA, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Ismael Kone’ of US Sassuolo celebrates after scoring a goal during the Serie A match between Pisa SC and US Sassuolo Calcio at Arena Garibaldi on January 31, 2026 in Pisa, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Sassuolo open to Kone sale as Serie A giants circle ahead of World Cup
Milan sporting director Igli Tare has already publicly confirmed his club’s interest, and with the release clause set at a fixed figure, the race is likely to come down to the player’s preference rather than a negotiation over fee.
Inter and Juventus have also been linked with the Sassuolo man, in what promises to be a difficult battle for his signature.
As Carnevali noted, there is also interest from abroad in the Canadian, meaning Italian clubs will want to act fast to avoid missing out.
Koné will head into the summer with considerable leverage, having established himself as one of the most dynamic midfielders in Serie A this season.
Inter Milan’s home kit for the 2026/27 season has been leaked online, with Footy Headlines revealing images of a Nike design that retains the club’s classic black and blue stripes while introducing a striking deep yellow finish on the club’s badges and logos.
According to Footy Headlines, who published exclusive images of the authentic version on April 25, more images of the shirt have since been leaked in collaboration with KamilBerberler.
The outlet also reported that the jersey was spotted on sale ahead of its official launch, with the inside collar carrying the inscription “Made of Milalo.”
Leaked Inter Home Kit 26/27 – FootyHeadlines
Gold logos and zig-zag detailing mark Inter new Nike home shirt
The design largely lets the stripes do the talking, but there are subtle departures from tradition.
The black stripes are notably thicker than the blue, and the blue stripes feature a zig-zag pattern at both ends, a contemporary touch on an otherwise classic template.
The deep yellow used on the crests and Nike branding is described as sitting midway between yellow and orange, giving the shirt a warmer, more distinctive feel than a standard gold.
The Nike Inter Milan 2026/27 home shirt will reportedly be available to purchase from May 2026.
Gian Piero Gasperini is pushing Roma to secure contract renewals for four out-of-contract players this summer, including Paulo Dybala and Lorenzo Pellegrini, both of whom have been linked with Inter Milan, while Zeki Celik has also attracted interest from Liverpool.
According to Sky Sport, via TuttoMercatoWeb, the recent departures of Claudio Ranieri and sporting director Frederic Massara have actually brought the squad closer together, with Gasperini using that unity to press the club for a clean sweep of renewals.
Alongside Dybala, Pellegrini and Celik, winger Stephan El Shaarawy is also out of contract, with all four previously considered likely to leave at the end of the season.
BOLOGNA, ITALY – APRIL 25: Gian Piero Gasperini, Head Coach of AS Roma looks on during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and AS Roma at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on April 25, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Getty Images)
Gasperini pushes Roma board to retain key quartet despite summer uncertainty
The situation has shifted, however, with Gasperini now understood to want all four players kept at the club.
His desire to retain them comes amid significant external interest, especially at zero cost.
Celik has been linked with both Inter and Liverpool, while Pellegrini has also been mentioned in connection with the Nerazzurri.
Dybala, meanwhile, has been repeatedly linked with a return to Argentina to join Boca Juniors.
Keeping hold of these players would be a significant mark of strength from Roma, especially as fans feel many still have something to give to the club.
Losing any of them, especially to a division rival like Inter, would be a huge blow, especially as
Inter legend Beppe Bergomi insists Milan, Juventus and Napoli can’t settle for a mere top-four finish next season and warns Barcelona about Alessandro Bastoni’s price tag: ‘He has great value…’
Inter and Italy legend Bergomi examined the Nerazzurri’s title-winning campaign in an interview with Repubblica, where he also discussed the improvements that Cristian Chivu’s team will need for 2026-27.
Chivu has won the Scudetto in his first full Serie A season as a coach, and Bergomi had no doubts about the former defender’s quality in the dugout.
“I knew he’d do well. Roberto Samaden, who had long been in charge of the youth sector, told me that Cristian could win his players’ hearts, and he did,” he said.
Bergomi went on to name the key Inter player this term.
“Lautaro. He’s the top scorer despite playing fewer games than in the past,” he said.
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates after being confirmed as Serie A champions following victory in the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“He has amazing quality and leadership skills. Zielinski and Dimarco are just one step behind.”
Bergomi feels the Nerazzurri’s target for next season is already set, but he also sent a warning to the other contenders.
“Win the league again, and it is not only true for Inter,” he claimed.
“Milan, Napoli and Juve can’t just say ‘we aim for a Champions League spot.’ It’s not fair towards the fans. The Champions League is an opportunity, but it is complex. With the new formula, if you don’t finish [the league phase] in the top eight, it gets very tough.”
According to recent reports, the Nerazzurri will have a minimum budget of €40-50m to strengthen the team, a sum that could be increased through some sales.
“I’d like a physically strong central midfielder, like Koné, Rabiot or Khephren Thuram, and a dribbler, like Nico Paz,” Bergomi said.
CAGLIARI, ITALY – MARCH 01: Beppe Bergomi looks on during the Serie A match between Cagliari and FC Internazionale at Sardegna Arena on March 1, 2019 in Cagliari, Italy. (Photo by Enrico Locci/Getty Images)
“It will be hard to sign him from Real Madrid, but that’s the type of player [Inter need].
“Inter have been without Calhanoglu, Dumfries, and Lautaro for many games,” continued the ex-defender.
“Bastoni too. In addition to injuries, he was subjected to unjustified public shaming. He made a mistake, but he took responsibility for it.”
According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Inter owners have already made €40-50m available for the summer transfer window, but the budget would increase with the sale of some players, especially Alessandro Bastoni.
Inter are already preparing to strengthen their team for 2026-27 after winning their 21st Scudetto this season.
Gazzetta reports that club owners Oaktree have already informed directors about their transfer budget for the summer, which will be between €40m and €50m.
The Serie A champions are expected to make significant changes, especially in defence, with Yann Sommer, Matteo Darmian, Francesco Acerbi and Stefan De Vrij leaving at the end of their contracts in June.
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 23: Giovanni Leoni of Liverpool controls the ball whilst under pressure from Leo Scienza of Southampton during the Carabao Cup Third Round match between Liverpool and Southampton at Anfield on September 23, 2025 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images)
The Nerazzurri have already been linked with Liverpool centre-back Giovanni Leoni, who played under Cristian Chivu at Parma last season.
Inter’s strategy in defence will largely depend on whether Bastoni stays beyond the summer.
President Beppe Marotta has confirmed Barcelona’s interest in the Italian centre-back, yet the Nerazzurri have received no formal proposal.
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates with his teammates after being confirmed as Serie A champions following victory in the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Sassuolo centre-back Tarik Muharemovic has already reached an agreement with the Nerazzurri, but club-to-club talks are still not at an advanced stage.
Experienced midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan is also expected to leave at the end of his contract in June, and according to Gazzetta, Curtis Jones is another Liverpool player targeted by the Nerazzurri.
Tottenham’s Guglielmo Vicario has been identified as the priority to replace Yann Sommer.
According to Gazzetta, Inter and Chivu could even decide to reshape the team, making suitable signings to a four-man defence.
In this scenario, Atalanta-owned Marco Palestra is a primary target, as the Italian can play either as a full-back or an attacking winger.
As reported by Corriere dello Sport, Inter still hope to sign Nico Paz from Real Madrid next summer, as the Argentine is expected to return to the Bernabeu from Como at the end of the current campaign.
Four-man defence and an assaulting team to go beyond the Scudetto.
Milan and Juve, Champions risk
Stars at stake
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Roma arrive, one point from the fourth spot
Sarri: ‘Derby at 12:30? I won’t go on the bench.’
Corriere dello Sport
New Inter
From the 21st Scudetto to market moves: more powers to Cristian and renewal to 2028
Chivu, let’s change
Assault on Paz, Koné and Palestra. Moratti: ‘Marvellous Nico.’
The Argentine will return to Real Madrid: Marotta tries. A new attempt for the Frenchman. Pressing on, Atalanta: the full-back is a priority. Chasing a centre-back: from Muharemovic to Leoni.
Poker Roma: Gasp goes -1 from Juve
Endless Lazio: Noslin’s magic
Referee managers called by the Prosecutor
Tuttosport
Toro in Superga: rage and pride
Juve, enough! Now Silva and Alisson
The coach expects six high-level reinforcements. First of all, he wants to feel safe with a central midfielder and a goalkeeper, like the experienced players of City and Liverpool. Tough speech to the players: if you do the minimum, you won’t go to the Champions League. Blitz in Stuttgart for Stiller and Grimaldo.
Roma boom: once again -1 from the fourth spot with four goals.
Defending champions Inter have Paz ready
45m plus sales to persuade Real Madrid, who will re-sign him from Como.
Inter President Beppe Marotta confirms Manuel Akanji will be bought outright from Manchester City and ‘with all due respect for Cesc Fabregas, but Cristian Chivu was our ideal candidate.’
The Nerazzurri are celebrating their 21st Serie A title, the first to be achieved with Marotta as President, because he was only the director general when they last lifted the trophy in 2024.
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates with his teammates after being confirmed as Serie A champions following victory in the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“This is a glorious club that is accustomed to winning, so it is important that we won the title three times in five years with three different coaches,” Marotta told Radio Sportiva.
“It means we have created a winning sporting model.”
Why Inter picked Chivu for new era
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: FC Internazionale coach Cristian Chivu and Federico Dimarco celebrate after being confirmed as Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Chivu was chosen after Simone Inzaghi asked to walk away just hours after losing the Champions League Final 5-0 to Paris Saint-Germain, as he had already agreed terms with Al-Hilal.
It was reported at the time that they had first approached Como for Fabregas, then turned to Chivu after being told he was not available.
“Inzaghi made the decision to try something different, so we asked ourselves which name to propose,” insisted Marotta.
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: FC Internazionale fans display a banner featuring Cristian Chivu during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“We evaluated Chivu as the person who perfectly fit the profile. A coach is a crucial figure and, with all due respect for Fabregas, Chivu represents the ideal candidate because he knows what it means to play and win with Inter.
“He already had Serie A experience and took Parma to safety, so this is why we chose him. It’s true he didn’t have a lot of experience coaching, but we wanted to show courage with this choice.
“Now he is a winning coach who can stay at Inter for many years.”
MILAN, ITALY – JANUARY 14: Francesco Pio Esposito of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates scoring his team’s first goal with his Head Coach, Cristian Chivu, during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and US Lecce at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on January 14, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Before taking the Parma job mid-season, Chivu had been working in the Inter youth academy as a coach, where he got to work with Francesco Pio Esposito.
That proved extremely useful when the youngster impressed at the Club World Cup.
“He asked us to keep Pio Esposito in the squad, another thing we are proud of.”
Meanwhile, it is confirmed that Akanji will be bought outright from Manchester City, as there was a clause in the loan activating the purchase option in case of the Scudetto victory.
“When we negotiated the loan, we did add an option to buy apart from the Scudetto too. We have great respect for him as a player and a man, so he will continue to be in our squad,” concluded the Inter President.
Marcus Thuram caught the eye with some special sunglasses during Inter’s Scudetto celebration and warns Hakan Calhanoglu they’re here to stay. ‘I’ll wear them in the World Cup.’
The Nerazzurri needed only a point last night against Parma to secure the Scudetto, but went better with a 2-0 victory thanks to goals from Thuram and Henrikh Mkhitaryan.
The France international took centre stage during the title celebrations on the pitch at San Siro with some snazzy shades, and was still wearing them the day after during an Instagram Livestream.
He was chatting with teammate Calhanoglu, who asked ‘Did you sleep with those on?’
Thuram insisted people haven’t understood his commitment to the bit.
“From now on, I will train, play, do everything with these on. You have seen the last of my eyes, it’s over! At the World Cup, if I go, I’ll be wearing these glasses. I’ll go hey, Mbappé, pass me the ball…”
“İnter”in prezidenti Beppe Marotta müdafiəçi Alessandro Bastoninin adının “Barselona” ilə hallanmasına münasibət bildirib.
Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, funksioner İtaliya mətbuatına açıqlamasında bunları deyib:
“Barselona”nın oyunçuya marağı var, düzdür. Ancaq hələ rəsmi müraciət yoxdur. Bastoni getmək istədiyini desə, qarşısını almarıq. Amma indi bizimlə olmaqdan məmnundur”.
Bastoni bu mövsüm 38 oyunda 2 qol vurub, 6 məhsuldar ötürmə edib.
The organised supporter groups of both Lazio and Inter Milan will stay away from the Stadio Olimpico for Saturday’s Serie A clash between the two sides, with Lazio’s ultras continuing their protest against the club’s ownership while Inter’s groups have chosen to join them in solidarity.
According to Radio Laziale, via LaLazioSiamoNoi, representatives of Lazio’s organised supporter groups confirmed the decision, explaining that both sets of fans will instead gather together at Ponte Milvio ahead of kick-off. The boycott forms part of a wider protest that has characterised the second half of Lazio’s season.
ROME, ITALY – MARCH 04: A detailed view of empty seats as fans are currently boycotting their matches in protest prior to the Coppa Italia match at Olimpico Stadium on March 04, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Lazio ultras eye Coppa Italia final as priority amid Serie A boycott
The groups were keen to stress, however, that the decision is also partly tactical, with the Coppa Italia final against Inter just four days away, staying outside is seen as a way of easing tension and building unity ahead of the Stadio Olimpico showpiece.
“For the final we will be inside the stadium,” a supporter group representative said.
“The decision to stay outside for the league match, together with Inter’s organised groups, was also taken to enjoy the build-up together. A way of lowering the tension and anxiety four days before the Coppa Italia final. It will be a chance to be together and pass on some communications to the fans present. On Wednesday we will need great clarity and everyone pulling together. I’ll say it now: get in early on Wednesday.”
Inter Milan are already planning their summer transfer business after clinching the Scudetto, with president Beppe Marotta having made clear the club intend to strengthen their Italian core with young, homegrown talent, though departures will shape how aggressively they can move.
Marotta set out his vision clearly in the aftermath of the title win.
“We have very clear ideas on how to act, thanks also to dialogue with the ownership, who will set the economic guidelines,” he said. “It is important to have a solid core of Italians. We need to continue and look at who the best young Italian players are.”
But who have the Nerazzurri been linked with and how can Marotta realistically strengthen Chivu’s side for the next campaign?
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PARMA, ITALY – APRIL 05: Giuseppe Marotta Chairman of FC Internazionale looks on prior to the Serie A match between Parma and FC Internazionale at Stadio Ennio Tardini on April 05, 2025 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Marco Palestra and Giovanni Leoni among Inter summer targets
The name most readily associated with that approach is Marco Palestra. The winger is currently on loan at Cagliari from Atalanta and has long been admired by Inter, who face the potential departure of Denzel Dumfries this summer.
Palestra fits Marotta’s blueprint precisely, young, Italian, and highly rated. Prising him from Atalanta will not come cheap, however, with his valuation already reported at around €40 million.
Marotta acknowledged the difficulty himself. “Unfortunately he is not ours, but he is a player of great future,” he said. “Alongside young Italians, we will also target experienced foreigners capable of bringing a winning culture.”
With Premier League clubs keen on the Atalanta-owned wing-back, Inter could find themselves quickly priced out of a move, even after comfortably winning Serie A this season.
Giovanni Leoni is another name on the Nerazzurri’s radar.
Inter were keen on the teenage defender last summer before Liverpool moved quickly to sign him, and the connection runs deeper now that Chivu, who coached Leoni at Parma, is in charge at Appiano Gentile.
A serious injury sustained in September kept Leoni out for much of the season, and should Liverpool consider moving him on, Inter are expected to be among the frontrunners.
A return to Italy could be the sensible move for the youngster’s career, away from the pressures of the Premier League.
Leoni has spoken warmly of Chivu’s influence. “When he arrived at Parma we were in a bad way,” the defender said. “He is brilliant at building relationships with players. He would never speak badly of you publicly.”
On the departures side, Francesco Acerbi and Matteo Darmian are both set to leave, while the futures of Stefan de Vrij, also out of contract, and Dumfries remain unresolved. How Inter navigate those exits will go a long way to determining the scale of their summer recruitment.
FIFA President Infantino posted an Instagram story on Sunday night to celebrate Inter’s Scudetto victory.
The Nerazzurri put their hands on their 21st Scudetto in history, beating Parma 2-0 at San Siro on Sunday.
It was a long night of celebrations in Milan, first at the Stadio Mezza and then in Piazza Duomo, where thousands of Nerazzurri supporters were joined by players late at night.
Infantino shared a video of Inter fans celebrating in Piazza Duomo, captioning it with the fans’ favourite motto: ‘Amala.’
Watch: Infantino celebrates Inter’s title victory on Instagram
“I’ve been a total football fan since I was a child. I have many idols. I remember the World Cup in Spain in 1982. Italy won it, with Paolo Rossi and that whole team of great players,” Infantino said in March.
“For me, it was spectacular. I was a 12-year-old boy at the time. That team and that moment are engraved in my heart. I’m also a supporter of Inter. One of my first idols – perhaps not well known in Spain – was Evaristo Beccalossi, a No. 10 who didn’t play in that World Cup or with the national team because the coach had other plans. Inter’s No. 10 made us dream and sometimes… also some things that can’t be said. I remember Alessandro Altobelli scoring a goal in the final. His third goal and the celebration against Germany were spectacular.”
Inter have won the 21st Scudetto in their history, and their 2-0 win over Parma on Sunday was followed by a night of celebrations, first at San Siro and then in Piazza Duomo.
Several Inter supporters remained in Milan’s main square all night and, at some point, were joined by some of their idols, including Marcus Thuram and Federico Dimarco.
Inter Milan president Beppe Marotta has addressed speculation linking Alessandro Bastoni with Barcelona, insisting the defender is content at the club despite concrete interest yet to materialise, as the Nerazzurri savour a third Scudetto title in five years.
“He was unlucky in certain episodes. Everyone had their eyes on him. He made that naive mistake against Juventus with the simulation, he was the first to admit it, but we protected him. He is a great champion. I won’t deny there is interest from Barcelona, but nothing concrete yet. A player leaves if he expresses the desire to go. At this moment he is happy to be with us and we are happy with him.”
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Alessandro Bastoni of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates after being confirmed as Serie A champions following victory in the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Marotta bullish on Inter’s Italian core ahead of title defence
Bastoni’s situation will dominate the summer agenda at Inter, but Marotta was equally forthcoming on broader ambitions.
On strengthening the squad’s Italian nucleus, he said: “Italy produces talent. We want to build a solid core of Italians, some are getting older so it is right to add more. For the Scudetto, you need a core who understands Italian football.”
Marotta also confirmed the Champions League remains a personal obsession.
“I have reached four finals and unfortunately lost them all,” he admitted. “It is something I still want to achieve, but next year we will try to improve in that competition.”
Cristian Chivu’s assistant coach, Aleksandar Kolarov, mentioned last season’s Champions League Final defeat during a post-match press conference on Sunday: ‘In football, it happens. The other teams were on the sofa watching what Inter would do.’
The Nerazzurri only needed one draw to win the title with three games to spare, but still secured a victory with goals from Marcus Thuram and Henrikh Mkhitaryan.
Football Italia was among the accredited media at San Siro, covering the build-up, the game, and all post-match celebrations.
Inter coach Chivu didn’t speak to reporters at full-time, leaving the stage to his staff members, including assistant coach Kolarov, who answered most of the journalists’ questions.
“We’ve believed in our job from the beginning. The lads were excellent in accepting our requests,” Kolarov said.
“It was easy to work with them. They’ve immediately made themselves available and reacted after a few losses. Let me add a few words about last season’s loss [in the Champions League Final]. In football, it happens.
FLORENCE, ITALY – MARCH 22: Aleksandar Kolarov vice-manager of FC Internazionale reacts during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and FC Internazionale at Artemio Franchi on March 22, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
“Journalists say it was a total disaster, but other teams didn’t even get there. Other teams were on the sofa watching what Inter would do. The lads have already made themselves available. We used their quality, not just in footballing terms. Men make the difference.”
Inter appointed Chivu last summer after seeing Simone Inzaghi by mutual agreement following a 5-0 defeat in the Champions League Final against PSG.
COMO, ITALY – APRIL 12: FC Internazionale coach Cristian Chivu shouts during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and FC Internazionale at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on April 12, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Inter star Federico Dimarco admits the 2025-26 Serie A title ‘means so much’ after last season’s disappointments and dedicates the Scudetto to ‘those who said I was finished.’
“It’s an amazing feeling. To see Milan coloured in black and blue is special,” the Italian defender told InterTV via FcInter1908.
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 17: Federico Dimarco of Inter talks with Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of FC Internazionale Milano, during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Cagliari Calcio at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on April 17, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“It tastes like a restart after the bad disappointments of last season. We have restarted with the team and staff members. We have worked hard and crowned the dream of the 21st Scudetto.
“We are a united team, and we were united in difficult moments too, when we were being beaten from every direction. We always showed up, and now we enjoy this title. It means so much after what happened last year. I dedicate it to all the people who are close to me, especially those who said I was finished at the end of last season.”
Dimarco was among the Inter stars who headed to Piazza Duomo at late light on Sunday to celebrate with the Inter supporters in the city’s main square.
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 28: Federico Dimarco of FC Internazionale celebrates after scoring their team’s first goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Genoa CFC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 28, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Inter have won the Scudetto with three games to spare, securing 26 victories in 35 league matches this term.
Last night, they needed just one point to put their hands on the Scudetto, but still secured a 2-0 victory with goals courtesy of Marcus Thuram and Henrikh Mkhitaryan.
“İnter” İtaliya A Seriyasında 2025/26 mövsümünün qalibi olub.
Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, komandanın moldovalı çalışdırıcısı Kristian Kivu 2010-cu ildən sonra “neradzurra” ilə liqanı qazanan ilk əcnəbi mütəxəssis olub.
Sonuncu dəfə 2010-cu ildə “İnter” portuqaliyalı Joze Mourinyonun rəhbərliyi altında A Seriyasının qızıl medallarını qazanmışdı.
Cristian Chivu has become the first foreign coach to win the Serie A title since José Mourinho in 2010, when the current Inter boss was a player under the Special One at the Stadio Meazza.
Chivu has won the Serie A title in his first season at San Siro and his first full campaign in Italy’s top flight, having previously coached Parma for only 13 matches last term.
PASADENA, CA – JULY 20: Jose Mourinho coach of Inter Milan talks with his team during practice at the Rose Bowl stadium on July 20, 2009 in Pasadena, California. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)
The Romanian tactician has become the first foreign coach to win the Scudetto since Mourinho in the 2009-10 campaign.
Back then, Mou not only won the Serie A title but also grabbed a legendary treble, with Chivu as one of the regular starters on that team.
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 21: Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of FC Internazionale Milano, celebrates after during the Coppa Italia Semi-Final match between FC Internazionale and Como at San Siro on April 21, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Since then, only Italian coaches have won the Italian league: Massimiliano Allegri has done it six times, followed by Antonio Conte with five, Maurizio Sarri, Stefano Pioli, Luciano Spalletti and Simone Inzaghi with one each.
List of Serie A title-winning coaches since Mourinho
Inter star Thuram recreated one of Kobe Bryant’s iconic photos on social media while celebrating the club’s 21st Scudetto in the dressing room on Sunday.
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Marcus Thuram of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Thuram had scored the opening goal in a 2-0 win over Parma, which allowed the Nerazzurri to win the Scudetto with three games to spare.
Right after the match, Thuram posted an Instagram picture showing him with two Scudetto trophies, those he won during his time at the Stadio Meazza.
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Marcus Thuram, Federico Dimarco, and Nicolo Barella of FC Internazionale Milano celebrate after being confirmed as Serie A champions following victory in the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
It was an edited picture as Inter will only lift the 2025-26 Scudetto trophy after the final matchday, but his pose was a tribute to the iconic picture of NBA legend Kobe Bryant taken in June 2001 after the Los Angeles Lakers had beaten the Philadelphia 76ers in Game 5 in Philadelphia.
Nerazzurri champions with a 2-0 win over Parma. Lautaro: ‘It wasn’t easy after last season.’ Chivu’s magic debut. Marotta: ‘May he stay for a long time.’ San Siro going crazy.
Corriere dello Sport
What a treble!
Historic triumphs of Sinner in Madrid and Kimi in Miami as the splendid frame of Inter’s 21st Scudetto.
Chivu’s domination: 2-0 to Parma and celebration with three games to spare.
Thuram and Micky put their names on the 26th victory in 35 games: +12 over Napoli and +15 over Milan. San Siro goes wild.
Tuttosport
Special Chivu: Inter’s euphoria
San Siro goes wild to celebrate the Nerazzurri’s triumph after the victory against Parma, signed by Thuram and Mkhitaryan. The Romanian, the protagonist of the 2010 treble, is the first foreign coach to win the Scudetto after Mourinho. Marotta: ‘He can stay for many years.’ The role of captain Martinez, the weight of Calhanoglu and Dimarco.
Here’s Vlahovic again, but Juventus throw themselves away
The Serbian replies to Bowie, amid errors and boos. Spalletti: ‘We are nothing special like this.’ Milan tilted, but the hook failed. Roma return to +1 tonight?
It was not always plain sailing, but in the end, Inter emerged as worthy Serie A champions. Giancarlo Rinaldi gives out his grades to some of the vital cogs in their title win.
It would be simplistic to say the Italian league was all but decided by New Year’s Day, but there’s a grain of truth in that assessment. Inter hit the top of the table shortly after Christmas and never really looked back. While others stumbled around them, the Nerazzurri showed that – at least on the home front – they could be the side to beat for some time to come unless other big clubs get their house in order or new challengers emerge. Here are the ratings of some of the most important figures in their 21st Scudetto.
Inter win 2025-26 Serie A title: the most influential figures
Christian Chivu 7.5/10 – Simone Inzaghi was a hard act to follow, and initially it looked like the Romanian might not be up to the job. Early defeats to Juventus and Napoli suggested he was fine against the league’s lesser lights but perhaps still learning against fellow giants. To a degree that persisted throughout the season, but not enough to dent their rise to the top. A big win over Como showed they meant business, and they set a pretty relentless pace. Europe and the Italian Supercup were disappointing, but with a potential double on the cards, thanks to a Coppa Italia final with Lazio, he surely deserves more than pass marks.
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 05: Federico Dimarco of FC Internazionale Milano acknowledges the fans following victory in the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and AS Roma at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on April 05, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Federico Dimarco 9/10 – Fans of the Italian national team might beg to differ, but for his club side, this was an unforgettable season for the flying fullback. He was already an amazing attacking option for his team, but his 18 assists this term – the best ever in Serie A since records began – took him to another level. Little wonder Marcus Thuram felt it necessary to polish his teammate’s boots after setting up yet another goal. Add to that a few goals of his own, and you can see why, especially with his partner in crime, Denzel Dumfries, out injured on the other flank for a long spell, he was one of the main architects of Inter’s success.
Manuel Akanji 7.5/10 – There is an accepted wisdom that defenders coming from the Premier League can struggle to adjust to the Italian game, but the Swiss international did not seem to have too many problems. He quickly became a stalwart on Chivu’s side just as he had previously done with Manchester City. He definitely made the biggest impact among any of the new arrivals at the club, and it is perhaps no surprise that there is speculation that he and Yann Bisseck could become the favoured centre-back pairing for a while to come.
Lautaro Martinez 8/10 – Even operating on a part-time basis, he remained a fundamental part of this Scudetto side, both from the touchline barking instructions and when he could get on the pitch to strut his stuff. His goal haul despite struggling with injuries tells part of the story but a more significant slice comes from what he adds to the overall teamplay. Simply one of the best link-up forwards in the business, he is capable of scoring goals and setting them up for others. The Nerazzurri will be praying they can hold on to him and that he has a season with a clean bill of health.
FLORENCE, ITALY – MARCH 22: Pio Esposito of FC Internazionale celebrates after scoring a goal during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and FC Internazionale at Artemio Franchi on March 22, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Francesco Pio Esposito 7/10 – Although he didn’t feature all that often or for a full 90 minutes, he was still definitely a bright spot this campaign. At a club more known for its old stagers than its youthful appearance, he was a breath of fresh air. His attitude, effort and will to learn helped him cope through periods when his more experienced counterparts were sidelined. In an era when very few young Italians get a chance anywhere – never mind with a title-winning team – this was a first step in what will hopefully be a very long and successful career.
Cristian Chivu jokes he was ‘already in the Inter history books’ as a player with the Treble, and tried to ‘draw on that experience’ with his squad as a coach. ‘I lost my ego during a life and death moment.’
Chivu won the Treble with Inter as a player in 2010, then started his coaching career with the club’s youth academy, where he worked with Francesco Pio Esposito.
He was not the first choice for the job, as many reported that they had first approached Cesc Fabregas, but the Romanian has secured their 21st Scudetto.
Chivu: ‘I was already in Inter history’
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of FC Internazionale Milano, celebrates after being confirmed as Serie A champions following victory in the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
When told he is in the Inter history books, he replied with his usual dry humour.
“I had done a few things as a player… But I am happy for these lads, for this club, for these marvellous fans who supported us from the start.
“I won’t say the whole narrative from last season, the mockery and denigration of this group, but the lads did well to roll their sleeves up, be reborn, and find what it took for a new competitive season.
“This is the 21st title and another page in the glorious history of this club. I was younger then, I’ve got some grey hair now, but I am just as happy as when I was a player. The players deserve the credit today, they were marvellous.”
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Players and staff of FC Internazionale Milano unveil a flag to celebrate being confirmed as Serie A champions after the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The Nerazzurri ended last season empty-handed and saw Simone Inzaghi walk away before the Club World Cup, bringing in Chivu after just a few weeks of senior management at Parma.
Few expected him to march to the Serie A title with three games to spare, and potentially set up a Double, seeing as they will play Lazio in the Coppa Italia Final on May 13.
“For what this club represents, it was our duty to be competitive. There are ups and downs, the season is a marathon, and we were the most consistent team overall, even after losing a few games, because we always managed to react and get back on our feet,” added Chivu.
“I think in January and February we had 14 wins in 15 games, or something like that, we realised that we could do it. We also had to overcome difficult moments like the Champions League exit to Bodo/Glimt, defeat in the derby, but we always kept our heads up with dignity and the desire to be competitive to the end.”
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates with his teammates after being confirmed as Serie A champions following victory in the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
A draw would’ve been enough tonight against Parma, but Inter did better with a 2-0 victory thanks to Marcus Thuram’s fifth game in a row on target, and Henrikh Mkhitaryan tapping in the Lautaro Martinez assist.
“Obviously I am happy, and it’s only right the players take the credit, enjoying all the love and affection of these fans. It was an opportunity to seal the Scudetto in front of the supporters and we did it.”
Chivu seemed to vanish into the tunnel at one point straight after the final whistle, did he want to leave all the spotlight for his players?
“I went to smoke a cigarette, I have some vices, sorry about that. But yes, they deserve it, so does the club, which always tried to comfort and support us in moments of need.”
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of FC Internazionale Milano, looks on prior to the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Where does the coach feel he stepped up and made the difference for his squad?
“I am an unusual person, I had to talk to myself during a moment between life and death, so I lost my ego then. I don’t feel the need to talk about myself,” replied Chivu.
He was referring to the life-changing head injury suffered while playing for Inter, which forced him to wear a protective helmet for the rest of his career.
MILAN, ITALY – OCTOBER 20: Coutinho, Cristian Chivu and Wesley Sneijder of Inter Milan celebrates after the first goal during the UEFA Champions League group A match between FC Internazionale Milano and Tottenham Hotspur at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on October 20, 2010 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)
“I just try to be the best version of myself, to help these lads who sometimes need the carrot, sometimes the stick. I try to draw on the experience I had in many locker rooms, and try not to repeat the errors I dealt with as a player.
“I try to be empathetic, understanding, not to think about the consensus of critics outside, but only on what those who love me think. I am the coach, I will always be up for debate and at risk, that’s the job. You have to accept it, knowing you can only try to do your best. I want to also thank my staff, they are in the same boat as me.”
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Marcus Thuram and Denzel Dumfries of FC Internazionale Milano celebrate after being confirmed as Serie A champions following victory in the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Traditionally, Serie A is won by the team with the best defence, but Chivu and Inter focused on getting the best attack with over 100 goals.
“We always wanted to be proactive, then depending on the opponents, we had different options, like two playmakers, dealing with their press. It’s also about understanding various moments of the game.
“My predecessors did a great job here too, so if these lads know certain things about the game, it is also thanks to those coaches who came before me, who made it easier for me and my staff. It is the players who win the titles and give you what you dreamed of as a child.”
Chivu managed to win the Scudetto up against legends like Antonio Conte, Max Allegri and Luciano Spalletti.
“They are great coaches and I can only learn from them. I will continue learning from them, those coaches who are young like me can only keep learning,” concluded Chivu.
Bu gün futbol üzrə İtaliya çempionatında (A Seriyası) 2025/2026-cı illər mövsümünün 35-ci turunun növbəti oyunları keçirilib.
Arena.az xəbər verir ki, üçüncü oyun günündə 4 qarşılaşma baş tutub.
“Bolonya” – “Kalyari” matçında qapılara qol vurulmayıb. “Sassuolo”nun qonağı olmuş “Milan” məğlubiyyətə üzülübsə, “Yuventus” “Verona” ilə ev oyununda xal itirib. Lider “İnter” isə “Parma” ilə ev oyunundan inamlı qələbə ilə ayrılmaqla sona 3 tur qalmış çempionluğunu təmin edib.
Qeyd edək ki, bu, “İnter”in tarixindəki 21-ci İtaliya çempionluğudur.
35-ci turun qalan görüşləri mayın 4-də keçiriləcək.
“I honestly never dreamed of winning as President of Inter, it is something remarkable. I thank the Presidents who preceded me, and who inspired me, like Pellegrini, Moratti, Zhang. I also thank the fans and the owners, who have allowed us to work in a calm atmosphere.
“However, this Scudetto belongs to Chivu and the team.”
Marotta oversaw Inter turnaround
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Players and staff of FC Internazionale Milano unveil a flag to celebrate being confirmed as Serie A champions after the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The Nerazzurri had needed a complete reboot after ending last season empty-handed, losing the Champions League Final, the Scudetto by one point, the Supercoppa Italiana Final and the Coppa Italia semi-final.
Simone Inzaghi walked away too, but Cristian Chivu was drafted in as a surprise choice just days before the Club World Cup kicked off with very little senior management experience.
He has taken them to the Serie A title and they still have to play the Coppa Italia Final against Lazio on May 13.
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Yann Aurel Bisseck of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates after being confirmed as Serie A champions following victory in the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“As Inzaghi also confirmed the contract termination by mutual consent was on Monday and on the Tuesday we decided to go for Chivu,” assured Marotta.
“It was a courageous choice, but a considered one too, because Chivu already had the curriculum as a player winning the Treble here, of being the Ajax captain at age 21, of winning with the Inter youth team as coach, and also of taking Parma to safety.
“We had no doubts on his skills, so perhaps he was lacking a little in experience, but we supported him to cover this gap in his CV. He can and must remain at Inter for many years, as he has great qualities.”
There were some moments during this season when they hit obstacles, repeatedly falling down in the big games and eliminated from the Champions League by Bodo/Glimt in the play-offs.
“After a slightly negative period where the performances were still strong, we realised the team was united and the coach was their leader,” explained Marotta.
“I never fired a coach during a season because the coach is a fundamental component who must be helped. Too often, people make instinctive decisions and the coach pays the price for others, but that is not the way we do things.
“We have a different culture, and besides, there was no reason to make a change. We knew his value and that of the team.”
Now Inter are preparing for next season, so has Chivu asked for any specific new signings?
“We speak very often, and this is not the right time to talk about it now, but we do have some clear ideas,” replied the President.
“The owners will set the financial guardrails, but I am confident because we have a solid core of Italian players in this squad. We also want to look around for the best Italian talents on the market.”
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates after being confirmed as Serie A champions following victory in the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Might he be referring to Atalanta-owned Marco Palestra, currently on loan at Cagliari?
“He has a great future ahead of him, but he is not our player.”
Someone whose future is up in the air is Alessandro Bastoni, who has been heavily linked with Barcelona and Liverpool.
“We need the right mix of youth and experience, those players who bring the winning culture and motivation.”
Lautaro Martinez admits Inter needed ‘a change’ with Cristian Chivu replacing Simone Inzaghi, but does not regret his harsh words on the path to the Scudetto.
A point would’ve been sufficient this evening against Parma to be mathematically sure of the title, but they went one better with a 2-0 victory thanks to Marcus Thuram’s fifth consecutive Serie A game on target and a Henrikh Mkhitaryan tap-in on Lautaro Martinez’s assist.
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 05: Lautaro Martinez of Inter celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and AS Roma at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on April 05, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
There was tension over the summer when ending the campaign empty-handed, going into the Club World Cup with new coach Cristian Chivu after Simone Inzaghi walked away.
The Argentine also hit out at some of his teammates, most notably Hakan Calhanoglu, demanding that only those who truly want to remain should do so.
Lautaro Martinez did not hold back
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Marcus Thuram and Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale Milano celebrate after being confirmed as Serie A champions following victory in the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“What I said at that moment was what I felt and had been holding inside me. I didn’t plan it, I just saw some things I didn’t like, and I say what I think,” Lautaro Martinez told DAZN Italia.
“We feel so happy now. It was not easy to start again after a season where we lost all the competitions we were in right at the end, but I am very happy today with this achievement.
“It was a very important objective for us, perhaps many didn’t see us being favourites considering what happened last term, but we worked so hard on and off the field.”
This is the first time in 37 years that Inter have managed to secure the Scudetto at San Siro, as the fixture list so often had them away from home when learning of their success.
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Henrikh Mkhitaryan of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates scoring his team’s second goal with teammates during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The team also scored over 100 goals this season, making them something of an anomaly in Italian football.
“We have for many years been doing very well in Italy and Europe, reaching two Champions League Finals in three years. We must continue along this path, because the most important thing after winning is to keep trying to do better,” added the Argentina international.
“In such a balanced league as this, we managed to keep focused as a group, and this is the most wonderful thing that I am impressed by, the unity of this team.”
Chivu was not the first choice for the job and had very little Serie A experience as a coach, but was rushed in ahead of the Club World Cup and made a huge impact.
“The coach did so well bringing fresh energy, enthusiasm, so after four great years with Simone, perhaps we needed a change of scenery after that Champions League Final. Chivu made sure everyone felt involved and could even train with a smile, that really helped.”
It’s not over yet, as Inter can do the Double when they face Lazio in the Coppa Italia Final at the Stadio Olimpico on May 13, while Lautaro Martinez can also be Capocannoniere.
“There’s always more space in the trophy cabinet! This is my mentality and that of Inter, so I am very proud to wear this shirt.”
Football Italia is among the accredited media at San Siro, following the game and celebrations, which have been ongoing since kickoff, as the Nerazzurri only needed one point to mathematically clinch the Scudetto with three games to spare.
Inter fans in Curva Sud, so opposite to the Ultras’ Curva Nord, put up two banners immediately after full-time.
Inter have won their 21st Scudetto, yet their main banner showed a big No. 14 on a Tricolore background.
The banner just underneath read: “+7 against everything and everyone”, referring to seven of Inter’s previous title victories won despite controversial refereeing incidents.
Inter fans in Curva Sud celebrate the title with 14+7 banners
Marcus Thuram and Nicolò Barella insist the genuine bond between players is what gave Inter the strength to ‘get back on our feet’ after ending the season empty-handed, going on to win the Scudetto.
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Henrikh Mkhitaryan of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates scoring his team’s second goal with teammates during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The Nerazzurri knew going into tonight’s game with Parma at San Siro that they only needed a point to guarantee the Serie A title.
They did even better, as Thuram ran onto the Piotr Zielinski through ball to beat Zion Suzuki on the stroke of half-time, then Henrikh Mkhitaryan turned in the Lautaro Martinez assist.
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Marcus Thuram, Federico Dimarco, and Nicolo Barella of FC Internazionale Milano celebrate after being confirmed as Serie A champions following victory in the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“Barella is one of the best players in the world, he can do so much, he helped Inter and Italy, in my view he is the best Italian player. I never understood when he was doubted by some people,” Thuram told DAZN Italia.
“He got angry on and off the field, he is one of our captains, and we must not forget that. Since I arrived at Inter, I saw a team that loves to stay together, on and off the field, and that is our strength.”
So many had said that the Inter era was over after they ended last season empty-handed, losing the Champions League Final 5-0 and missing out on the Scudetto by one point to Napoli.
Simone Inzaghi’s departure also raised doubts, but Cristian Chivu has taken them to the title with three rounds to spare, and potentially also a Double, as they face Lazio in the Coppa Italia Final on May 13.
“Of course we’re happy! As we always said, this was our objective, we have another in just over a week’s time, this was not easy, but we want to enjoy it now,” Barella told DAZN Italia.
“This is football and life, there are difficult moments, for example last season we came so close to everything and won nothing. In life you must always get back on your feet and I want to thank these lads and the staff, they helped me during tough moments, and I try to give my all.
“I always said that you can make mistakes on the field, but this team never lost the desire to stay together. We always gave everything we had, you can win or lose, but I am so proud of these lads.”
Inter are the Champions of Italy for the 21st time, as Marcus Thuram and Henrikh Mkhitaryan secured the 2-0 victory over Parma to get the party started at San Siro.
The Nerazzurri knew just a point here would suffice to celebrate the title after Napoli’s 0-0 draw at Como, but while Hakan Calhanoglu and Luis Henrique were injured, Lautaro Martinez was back on the bench, and Alessandro Bastoni had his first start in three weeks. The Ducali already secured Serie A safety and could relax, missing Matija Frigan and Benja Cremaschi.
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Players of FC Internazionale Milano pose for a team photograph prior to the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
An early Denzel Dumfries glancing header flashed inches wide from the Nicolò Barella cross, but Parma also wasted a chance to take the lead when Mateo Pellegrino got the volley wrong from 12 yards on the Adrian Bernabé cross from the right.
Inter could not have come closer on 26 minutes when a well-worked move set up Barella for the scorching finish off the crossbar, it bounced off Zion Suzuki’s back, but the goalkeeper managed to scramble the rebound off the feet of Marcus Thuram from point-blank range.
Dumfries had a shot charged down by Abdoulaye Ndiaye following another give-and-go, but Inter broke the deadlock in first half stoppages. Thuram sprung the offside trap on the Piotr Zielinski through ball, took a touch and swept in with the inside of the right boot from seven yards. It was the Frenchman’s fifth consecutive Serie A match on target.
A clinical Marcus Thuram finish!
Inter need just one point vs Parma to clinch the Scudetto this evening
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) May 3, 2026
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Marcus Thuram of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Pio Esposito went off with a back injury, replaced by former Parma striker Ange-Yoan Bonny for the restart, while Lautaro Martinez also made an appearance for the final 25 minutes.
Dimarco almost added another assist to his record-breaking campaign, but Henrikh Mkhitaryan failed to tap in at the back post from six yards, allowing Hans Nicolussi Caviglia to scramble it clear.
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Federico Dimarco of FC Internazionale Milano and Adrian Bernabe of Parma Calcio 1913 chase after the ball during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Another Dimarco roll across from the right was fired over by Dumfries at full stretch, while Lautaro Martinez cut inside a defender to bend the finish into the arms of Suzuki.
The second goal arrived when Lautaro Martinez sprung the offside trap down the right and rolled it across for Mkhitaryan to tap in from five yards.
Henrikh Mkhitaryan adds the finishing touches to a delightful Inter move
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) May 3, 2026
Nesta Elphege had the ball in the net late on for Parma, but only after Pontus Almqvist had wandered offside for the assist.
Davide Frattesi nearly got a goal moments after coming on for Barella, but his volley on yet another Dimarco cross squirmed under Suzuki, the keeper preventing it from crossing the line completely.
Watch as Marcus Thuram gets the Inter party started against Parma, finding the net for the fifth game in a row, but the celebration didn’t go entirely to plan.
The Nerazzurri went into tonight’s match knowing a point would be enough to be mathematically crowned the new Champions of Italy, putting them beyond reach of second-placed Napoli.
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Players of FC Internazionale Milano pose for a team photograph prior to the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
They went even better, as Thuram ran onto the Piotr Zielinski through ball to give them the lead in first half stoppages, sending the San Siro crowd wild.
It was the striker’s fifth consecutive Serie A match on the scoresheet, with so far a total of six goals.
Thuram opens Inter account
A clinical Marcus Thuram finish!
Inter need just one point vs Parma to clinch the Scudetto this evening
— CBS Sports Golazo (@CBSSportsGolazo) May 3, 2026
He tried to go into a knee-slide celebration on the turf, but the pitch wasn’t quite as slick as he expected, and the France international ended up face-down in the grass instead.
Juventus fans showed their discontent towards Canada striker David on Sunday as the 26-year-old was booed while being subbed off in a home game against already-relegated Verona.
TURIN, ITALY – JANUARY 25: Jonathan David of Juventus celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SSC Napoli at Juventus Stadium on January 25, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
David started the match and was subbed off at minute 70, with the score already 1-1.
As reported by TMW and other media outlets, most Juventus fans were unhappy with the Canadian’s performance and showed their unhappiness when he left the field to make room for Fabio Miretti.
BOLOGNA, ITALY – DECEMBER 14: Jonathan David of Juventus during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and Juventus FC at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on December 14, 2025 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Dusan Vlahovic had been introduced a few minutes earlier, scoring the equaliser for the Bianconeri.
The Serbia international had missed several months of action because of a muscle injury that required surgery in December 2025 and scored his first goal since October.
David is in his first season at Juventus, where he has netted eight goals in 44 appearances across all competitions.
Inter President Beppe Marotta admits he didn’t expect Cristian Chivu to win the Scudetto in his first season, and potentially the Coppa Italia too. ‘We didn’t go in blind, but showed courage.’
The champagne is on ice in the dressing room, because just one point tonight will be enough to guarantee the Nerazzurri become Champions of Italy.
As Napoli and Milan both dropped points already this weekend, a draw will suffice to get the Scudetto party started.
Marotta ready for Inter success
PISA, ITALY – NOVEMBER 30: Giuseppe Marotta of FC Internazionale looks on prior to the Serie A match between Pisa SC and FC Internazionale at Arena Garibaldi on November 30, 2025 in Pisa, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
“Let’s be prudent here. We know that this is the most important exam for the diploma, and we’ll give it our all to achieve this target that would make the fans, players, club and coach happy,” Marotta told DAZN Italia.
“We hope it can be a great game and that is concluded with the Scudetto, but Parma deserve respect.”
Chivu had been a contentious choice when picked to replace Simone Inzaghi, but has proved to be a success with the title and potentially also the Coppa Italia.
“An important value for Inter is courage, I think that is the main fuel behind this decision made by the owners on one side and the management on the other. We certainly didn’t go in blind, we evaluated Chivu’s skills and characteristics, which suited our needs and our weaknesses,” explained the President.
“We had no doubts he would have a positive campaign, but if it ends with the Scudetto and the Coppa Italia, that would be a truly extraordinary season.”
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 05: Nicolo Barella of FC Internazionale Milano is congratulated by Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of FC Internazionale Milano, after scoring his team’s fifth goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and AS Roma at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on April 05, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Inter are hoping to make this a Double, because they will face Lazio in the Coppa Italia Final at the Stadio Olimpico on May 13.
However, they haven’t clinched the title on home turf for 37 years, so doing it at San Siro would be a relatively new experience.
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 21: The FC Internazionale fans show their support during the Coppa Italia match between FC Internazionale and Como 1907 at San Siro on April 21, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“We were optimistic from the start, as Chivu worked in our youth academy, so we knew him as a coach and a person with great values. Admittedly, we didn’t expect him to have such a remarkable season, with the only blotch being that Champions League elimination, but these things happen.
“We are very pleased, because he came up through our youth academy, which adds to the pride of this club.”
This is set to be the 10th Scudetto for Marotta at two different clubs, as he won with both Juventus and Inter, but this would be his first as a club President.
He was asked if he had any updates on the refereeing scandal and the suggestions that Inter did not want certain referees?
“No, I have nothing to add to last week, we are very relaxed and not concerned.”
Inter need just one point to celebrate the Scudetto tonight against Mateo Pellegrino’s Parma, so Francesco Pio Esposito, Marcus Thuram and Alessandro Bastoni start.
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 17: Federico Dimarco of Inter talks with Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of FC Internazionale Milano, during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Cagliari Calcio at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on April 17, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Esposito therefore partners Thuram upfront, with Petar Sucic preferred to Henrikh Mkhitaryan in midfield.
Bastoni returns in defence three weeks after his last start, having struggled with a recurring ankle issue.
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 05: Alessandro Bastoni of Inter warms up prior to the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and AS Roma at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on April 05, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Parma have already locked down their Serie A safety thanks to a victory over Pisa, and are therefore also in celebratory mood at San Siro.
Matija Frigan and Benja Cremaschi are out of action, but Pellegrino leads the attack with Gabriel Strefezza, as super-sub Nesta Elphege waits for his opportunity.
UDINE, ITALY – APRIL 18: Nesta Elphege of Parma celebrates scoring his team’s first goal with teammate Gabriel Strefezza during the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and Parma Calcio 1913 at Stadio Friuli on April 18, 2026 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
Many of these players worked with Cristian Chivu last season, but it is a remarkable achievement for the coach to win the Scudetto in his first full top flight campaign.
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