Christian Kivu, the head coach of Inter Milan, held a press conference before his team's match against Napoli in the eighth round of the Serie A, scheduled for Saturday, October 25, 2025.

Regarding the match against Napoli, Kivu said: "What happened in the past doesn't matter much; what's important is that the current champions of Italy are facing the runners-up. Both teams have great ambitions, and it will be a tough match as each side seeks to show their desire to win."

On the competition between the two teams after last season, he added: "We cannot compare this season to last season, even though we take into account what happened. One team won the league, and the other did not. This is only the eighth round; it is still early, but the competition is there. Napoli is a strong team and has won two titles in the last three years, so the match will be an opportunity for each team to show its ambition."

On giving players a day off before the match, he continued: "It seems normal to me; the best training for the team is rest. The players have gone through an intensive period with international duties and travels, so it was appropriate to give them a day with their families. I trust their professionalism and sense of responsibility."

On the importance of the match for the course of the season: "It is an important match; this cannot be denied. The points are important, and everything that shapes the course of the season has its significance. Playing in Naples is difficult; the atmosphere will not be in our favor, and we need a great performance both mentally and physically."

On the difference in preparation as a coach compared to playing: "My experience has taught me that every match should be treated with the same seriousness to maintain continuity towards our goals. You cannot feel superiority on paper; you must respect yourself, your teammates, and the opponent."

On Lautaro's performance with Boni and Esposito: "That does not affect the performance; all the attackers are compatible and work for the team, and they have shown that they are capable of playing together without hindering each other."

On the Milan vs. Como match away: "I have learned not to complain; it is a waste of energy. Football has become international, and professionalism is part of our work. It is up to the coaches and clubs to manage energy and resources, and sometimes the best training is rest, especially when playing many matches."

On the lack of goals in the last round: "The Serie A has not historically been high-scoring, which shows that teams are well-prepared and coaches study their opponents carefully. The focus is not only on our play but also on minimizing the opponent's danger."

On facing his former coach: "I don't think this needs mentioning; Conte was here five years ago, then under Inzaghi, Inter won the second star and reached two finals in the Champions League. We have ambition and a desire for a great season."

On young players like Luis Henrique and Dufus: "They are talents, but they need to adapt to Italian football. I do not consider them fully ready yet, but they are working well and have a lot of potential. Their time will come."