Inter Milan Captain Lautaro Martinez Reveals Inzaghi’s Departure Plans
Lautaro Martinez, captain of Inter Milan, has disclosed that coach Simone Inzaghi informed the team of his intention to leave. In an interview with France Football, he discussed the coach’s exit this summer and referred to an altercation with teammate Hakan Calhanoglu as merely “a misunderstanding.”
Inzaghi’s Departure
Inzaghi, who managed the team for four years, left Inter Milan after receiving an enticing offer from Al-Hilal, a club in the Saudi Pro League. Although it seemed likely that he would renew his contract, the financial package from Al-Hilal ultimately swayed him. Following the Champions League final, the coach departed from Inter, generating much speculation during the season’s end.
Lautaro on Inzaghi’s Decision
The Inter captain emphasized that Inzaghi’s choice to leave did not affect the team’s performance at the season’s close. He highlighted the coach’s professionalism and dedication, stating that the team remained focused on their goals despite the transition.
Martinez Discusses Rituals and Pre-Match Mindset
Martinez shared insights about his pre-match rituals, saying he follows specific routines to maintain mental peace. He sets his alarm at 8:01 AM and engages in practices like boiling water for mate before stepping on the pitch with his right foot, a common superstition in South America.
Addressing Conflict with Calhanoglu
Regarding his public disagreement with Hakan Calhanoglu, Martinez clarified that it was a misunderstanding intended to address general team issues. Following discussions among the team, he affirmed that all is well within the squad, emphasizing unity with their new coach, Cristian Chivu.
Reflections on Champions League Final
Martinez reflected on Inter’s experience in two Champions League finals within three years, expressing the pain of falling short. He noted the team’s good preparations but acknowledged that they failed to perform at their potential against Paris Saint-Germain in the most recent final.
Aiming for Recognition
The Inter captain expressed disappointment in his Ballon d’Or ranking, believing he deserved a higher position after a season where he excelled both individually and with the team. Despite feeling underrated, he prioritizes collective achievements, emphasizing his commitment to the team’s success over personal accolades.
