Parma on Monday announced the departure of Cristian Chivu ahead of his return to Inter Milan as head coach, Afrosport reports.
Chivu will replace Simone Inzaghi in the dugout at San Siro following the latter’s departure to Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal.
The 44-year-old leaves Parma after helping the club to Serie A safety and returns to Inter, where he spent seven seasons and won nine trophies as a player, including three Serie A titles and the 2010 Champions League.
“Parma Calcio announces that it has reached an agreement, by mutual consent, with Cristian Chivu for the termination of his contract,” a statement from the Italian club read.
“The Club thanks Cristian for the work done and for achieving the sporting goal, wishing him the best professional fortunes for the continuation of his career.”
Chivu, meanwhile, confirmed his departure with a post on social media, thanking the club and fans for their support.
“I thank the club, staff, players and fans for having believed in me and our project,” wrote Chivu on Instagram. “Together we overcame obstacles and wrote a page (in Parma’s history) which will remain in my heart.”
Chivu joined Parma in February 2025, with the club battling relegation, replacing Fabio Pecchia. It was his first head coach role in football, having previously overseen Inter’s youth team set-up.
Inter finished the 2024-25 season trophyless following a 5-0 drubbing in the Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain.
The Nerazzurri were targeting Como manager Cesc Fabregas but have settled for Chivu, who has reportedly agreed to a two-year deal with the club.
Chivu’s first task as Inter boss will be to lead the team to this summer’s Club World Cup, set to take place in the United States from 14 June to 13 July.
The Serie A club are in Group E and will begin their campaign against Mexican club Monterrey on 17 June, before taking on Japan’s Urawa Reds on 21 June and Argentine side River Plate in their final group game on 25 June.