Champions League Preview | Real Madrid vs Inter Milan: If Chivu Wins, Real Madrid Could Consider Him as Mourinho's Successor

Recently, in an interview with the magazine that organizes the Ballon d'Or, Mbappe said he deserved to win this year's award, sparking widespread discussion. However, whether such confidence is justified remains a question. Although Mbappe has attracted significant attention at both club and national team levels, he has yet to win any major trophies, and relying only on three Golden Boot honors appears insufficient. Moreover, his annual goal tally is still below Kane's.

Former France international Christophe Dugarry commented that Mbappe's public request for the Ballon d'Or appeared immature and regrettable. However, he also noted that Mbappe's ability must be acknowledged, as few people would confidently claim they are better than him at this point. Another French legend, Jerome Rothen, believes Mbappe carefully chose the timing of the interview, while recent Ballon d'Or winners had not directly demanded the award in such a way. Commentator Antonio Romero expressed concern that Mbappe may lack a clear understanding of the current situation.

To win the Ballon d'Or, Mbappe needs to deliver stronger performances, such as helping Real Madrid win the Champions League this season. If he can achieve that, next year's Ballon d'Or race would become much easier, especially since next year is not a major international tournament year. Based on Real Madrid's 0-1 defeat to Real Betis in the fourth round of La Liga, Mbappe still has room for improvement. How will he perform next against Inter Milan in the Champions League?

Match information:

Real Madrid VS Inter Milan

Competition: Champions League opening round

Time: September 9, 03:00

Mourinho has returned to manage Real Madrid with great ambition and brought in several strong reinforcements during the summer transfer window, making Real Madrid's squad valuation the highest in the world. Based on the first three La Liga matches, Mourinho's team appeared to be back on a title-challenging path. However, after suffering their first defeat, doubts have emerged about his ability. Some have pointed out that Mourinho began criticizing referees again after the loss, similar to his first spell in charge.

During Mourinho's first spell at Real Madrid, he successfully led the team to defeat Barcelona's 'Dream Team 3.0' era and won multiple trophies, but the Champions League campaign always ended in the semifinals. What changes will he make in his second stint? Journalist Frederic Hermel believes it has become increasingly difficult for Real Madrid to win the Champions League this season.

Inter Milan head coach Chivu was once a player under Mourinho. Although Chivu's Champions League record as a coach has not matched that of his predecessor Simone Inzaghi, he led the team to reclaim the Serie A title in his first season, which deserves recognition. In this reunion between coach and former player, if Mourinho loses, Real Madrid could perhaps consider hiring the young Chivu as his replacement.

In terms of recent results, Real Madrid have recorded eight wins, one draw, and one defeat across all competitions, although they suffered their first La Liga loss. Inter Milan, meanwhile, have remained unbeaten in their last 10 matches with six wins and four draws, and have opened their Serie A campaign with three consecutive victories. In their historical meetings, Real Madrid hold a clear advantage, winning six of their last seven matches against Inter and remaining unbeaten.

Regarding injuries, Real Madrid will be without seven players including Asensio and Mendy, while Camavinga, Guler, and B. Silva are suspended after receiving red cards in last season's final Champions League match. Although these absences have an impact, key players remain available. Inter's injury situation is lighter; Spence is unavailable, while Dimarco's participation remains uncertain.

Overall, Real Madrid are considered the stronger side for this match. Chivu's Inter will face the challenge of containing Real Madrid's many world-class attacking players away from home, and handling that pressure will be a major test.