Chivu spoke to Radio TV Serie A and addressed the challenge of maintaining the squad's competitive edge in the days following their Serie A title celebration, with the Italian championship already mathematically secured.
"The secret is not to switch off, to maintain the ambitions and everything that has been the journey we have earned. Conscious of the fact that we have earned a final, we have to honour it and play to win."
He acknowledged the difficulty of managing player focus after the euphoria of winning the Scudetto.
"What always matters — not only after winning, but after every match. I always think about the team's attitude, both individually and collectively. I am dealing with a wonderful group of players who, despite some celebrations in recent days, have come back with the right mindset, aware that we must honour the remaining league matches and especially tomorrow's final."
His words about Sarri were generous and specific, going beyond diplomatic praise to genuine professional respect.
"He doesn't need my praise — we all know what he is as a coach and as a person. He is a maestro. We can all learn from him. He has done a great job with this Lazio, despite all the difficulties encountered this season. Players lost in the summer and in January. He has nonetheless maintained a high level and given an identity to a team that can make life difficult for anyone."
Lazio qualified for the final under Sarri having beaten Juventus in the semi-final. The Coppa Italia represents their best remaining chance at silverware this season. Inter Milan will start as heavy favourites. Chivu expects Sarri's side to make that status feel considerably less comfortable than it looks on paper.