Piotr Zielinski and Francesco Pio Esposito inspired Inter Milan to a season-defining 3-2 home win over Juventus on Saturday.
According to Tuttosport via FCInterNews, Cristian Chivu has helped the Nerazzurri duo become
Despite joining Inter as one of standout Serie A stars, Piotr Zelinski was on the fringes of Simone Inzaghi’s squad last season.
However, Chivu has turned the 31-year-old’s fortunes around this term, making him central to his project at San Siro.
Meanwhile, the skilled midfielder has repaid that trust with five goals in 22 league appearances, including a last-gasp winner on Saturday.
How Cristian Chivu Turned Zielinski & Pio Esposito Fortunes at Inter Milan
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)
Zielinski seemed destined to leave Inter last summer, but Chivu stopped his exit, promising to reignite his career at San Siro.
And he has done just that, with the Polish superstar already scoring four more goals than in the entire last season.
On the other hand, Chivu insisted on keeping hold of Francesco Pio Esposito during the summer transfer window.
Indeed, he was the reason behind Inter’s decision to turn down several lucrative offers for the 20-year-old striker.
Esposito has refused to let down his manager, racking up six goals and six assists across 32 appearances this season.