Cristian Chivu is determined to make sure Inter keep fighting at the top during his first season in charge, boasting big ambitions for the team.

In 2024-25, Inter narrowly missed out on a treble, losing the Coppa Italia semi-final to rivals Milan, before missing out on the Serie A title by a point and losing the Champions League final 5-0 to Paris Saint-Germain.

Simone Inzaghi left the club days later, with former player Chivu taking his place ahead of the Club World Cup campaign, where Inter were knocked out in the round of 16 by Fluminense.

Despite a disappointing ending to the last campaign, Chivu insists the Nerazzurri will not dwell on it as they aim to challenge for the trophies on offer once more.

"We're starting again with the right mindset to carry on as a competitive team; that's our goal," he told reporters.

"The expectations are the same as always, the same ones this club has had since its inception: to be competitive, to maintain loyalty and passion, and to achieve our objectives.

"I think the way this group has performed over the past few years speaks for itself. A winning side that has fought for titles, reaching two Champions League finals and one Europa League final, shows the strength, solidity, and awareness of what this team can deliver.

"But we never look to the past; we're not seeking revenge. We focus on the present and the future.

"This team, despite its ups and downs, has been built to be at the top, and that's where it must stay, regardless of the titles we win.

"We'll always give everything to reach our goals, but, of course, it's the facts that count more than words. This club is united and determined to make its mark and remain at the top of Italian, European, and world football."

Chivu oversaw an unbeaten group stage at the Club World Cup, making a steady start to life in the dugout before their early exit after they struggled to break down Fluminense.

Now, preparing for the start of Serie A, Inter are expected to be underdogs, with Antonio Conte and Napoli looking to defend the Scudetto. Juventus and Milan, who have recently appointed Massimiliano Allegri as their head coach, will also hope to be among those in the title race.

Chivu brushed off the label, though, claiming Inter will prove their desire on the pitch once the season starts.

"I don't know about underdogs," Chivu added.

"There's only one way I know to have an advantage, and that's to work hard, give everything, and understand the culture of discipline and the difficulties of a season.

"Then you reap what you sow. It's not right to talk about underdogs: at the start of the season, many teams claim to want to win, but in the end, it's actions that count. To achieve results, you have to dig deep."