Inter Milan have moved quickly to shut down fresh rumours linking Diego Simeone with a sensational return to the San Siro, with club president Giuseppe Marotta firmly dismissing claims of any pre-contract agreement.
Reports circulating from Spain suggested Inter had already reached an agreement in principle with the Atlético Madrid boss. However, speaking via Fabrizio Romano X handle and other outlets on February 24, 2026, Marotta made Inter’s position crystal clear, calling the story “absolute fake news.”
Inter president Marotta: “Reports from Spain on a pre contract agreed between us and Diego Simeone are absolute fake news”. “The story is not true at all. We are super happy with our coach Cristian Chivu”.
There is no truth at all in these reports. We are super happy with our coach Cristian Chivu, Marotta said, reaffirming the club’s full backing of their current manager.
Chivu, who is under contract until June 2027, continues to enjoy strong support from the Inter hierarchy. The former Nerazzurri defender has impressed in a high-pressure role, guiding Inter to the top of Serie A while also navigating the Champions League knockout phase.
Marotta praised his progress, insisting the Romanian is proving himself worthy of leading one of Europe’s biggest clubs.
Despite the denial, Simeone’s name continues to hover around Inter due to his emotional connection with the club. The Atlético Madrid manager has previously spoken openly about his affection for the Nerazzurri, even admitting in late 2025 that he “imagines a period with Inter” in his coaching journey.
Still, Simeone remains under contract with Atlético until 2027 and is fully focused on his project in Madrid.
The ongoing speculation is also fueled by Simeone’s reputation and stature in world football. Social media analysis from outlets suggests the link persists because of his deep ties to Inter as a former player, his proven success at Atlético Madrid, and his status as one of the highest-paid managers in the game.
Softfootball reported that Former Atlético full-back Filipe Luís recently added to Simeone’s aura by describing him as a “father figure” who shaped him into one of the best left-backs in the world.
For now, Inter’s message is firm and direct: Cristian Chivu is their man. With the club sitting top of Serie A and still alive in the Champions League, the Nerazzurri see no reason to entertain speculation about their managerial future.
