Chivu: ‘I’d love to play in Parma vs. Juventus’ | OneFootball

Parma coach Cristian Chivu notes that Igor Tudor has transformed Juventus since taking over, but Parma are ‘ready for anything’ and it’s the kind of fixture ‘I’d love to play in.’

It kicks off at the Stadio Tardini on Monday at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT).

The Ducali have turned a corner since Chivu took over from sacked Fabio Pecchia, as the run of five consecutive stalemates has steadied the ship, especially with back-to-back draws against Inter and Fiorentina.

“Since coming here, I said we were going into 13 Cup Finals, so that is how we face every match,” said Chivu in his press conference.

“The objective is a good performance, get a result, give a gift to our fans, because we know how much they care about this particular fixture. Juventus have a deep squad with a lot of quality and under Igor Tudor they now play with a lot more intensity, they are more direct.

“We must therefore be prepared, concentrated, and create density to close off some of those passing channels.”

Chivu and Tudor both attack-minded coaches

Official: Cristian Chivu replaces Fabio Pecchia as head coach of Parma (picture via www.parmacalcio1913.com)

It is put to Chivu that although both coaches were defenders during their playing career, they are more focused on attacking in this profession.

“What we did as players doesn’t matter, this is a very different role. We are coaches with experience, we both played in winning teams that liked to take the initiative. Now we have different objectives, so we must have the humility to fight for Serie A safety,” replied the Romanian.

“Tudor has always played with a 3-4-2-1 since taking over, but we must be ready for anything. Serie A is tough precisely because you must know how to adapt to a few different situations. I certainly don’t need to motivate my players, this is the kind of fixture I’d love to play in.”

Chivu is eager to keep his Parma squad on an even keel after recent positive results, as they host a revitalised Juventus.

“It is not easy, but we must try to balance enthusiasm with humility. We worked hard to reach these games with enthusiasm, but the lads are also aware of the kind of humility they need to show. I am a perfectionist and believe we can always improve.

“I would like to see a more clinical edge, as we created so many clear-cut opportunities against Inter and Fiorentina. When you are clear on goal five times, you should be scoring five goals.”

Chivu confirmed that Parma are waiting on the fitness levels of Botond Balogh and Matteo Cancellieri, amongst others.