Will Hakan Calhanoglu Leave Inter? Cristian Chivu Hits Back Over Criticism Towards Turkish Midfielder

Cristian Chivu has hit back at the likes of Fabio Capello over the criticism towards Inter midfielder, Hakan Calhanoglu, as the Turkish midfielder’s future in Milan has been questioned.

What Did Cristian Chivu Say About Hakan Calhanoglu?

Hakan Calhanoglu looked to be on his way out of Milan during the summer window, as the Turkish international discussed personal terms with Galatasaray.

Despite these negotiations, Calhanoglu decided to stay in Italy, but this did not come without it’s controversies – especially in the FIFA Club World Cup.

Following the Nerazzurri’s exit from the competition, club captain Lautaro Martinez inadvertently suggested that if Calhanoglu does not want to be at the club then he should leave.

This rift appears to have settled, with Calhanoglu appearing in the 2-1 defeat to Torino and the Turkish midfielder is set to start for Inter against Juventus on September 13th.

Inter Milan manager, Cristian Chivu has given his thoughts on the Turkish midfielder and revealed that Calhanoglu is now fully focused despite a difficult summer.

Chivu said: “What I have seen in the last month is a player who is always motivated, despite everyone forgetting he was sidelined for two months through injury. He had a summer that was not entirely happy but he chose to stay with us and is ready to help.

“We are aware of the season’s length, it is a marathon of 38 match days,” he said, “When things don’t go well, we need to roll up our sleeves and keep moving forward with courage.

“It is a continuous process, once passion is found, it can be easily lost. Motivation makes the difference every day for player and staff alike. Managing a group is the hardest part for a coach because you need everyone motivated.”

Will Hakan Calhanoglu Leave Inter In January?

Although Chivu has backed the Turkish midfielder, Calhanoglu may still consider a move back to his home nation during the January transfer window – especially if Inter’s performances do not improve.

The Nerazzurri kicked-off the season with a 5-0 win over Torino, but could not carry the momentum into this next match as Chivu’s side were beaten 2-1 at home to Udinese.

Things do not get any easier for Inter, as Chivu’s men travel to Turin to face Juventus in a stadium that the Nerazzurri have not won in since November 2012.

Fans will be watching Juventus vs Inter with intrigue, with both teams being tipped to push Napoli for the title and Calhanoglu could play a vital role.

Calhanoglu’s father, Huseyin, has put any rumors over a possible departure to bed, stating that his son is happy in Milan and still has two-years remaining on his contract.

Huseyin Calhanoglu said: “Hakan is happy with his club at the moment and will continue at Inter. He already has a contract for another two years.”