Inter Milan striker Lautaro Martinez has spoken about his conversation with Lionel Messi after Messi announced his retirement from international football. Messi revealed his decision just over a week ago. He stated that he was stepping away from the Argentina national team permanently, as he had come to the end of his cycle with the team.
Martinez spoke at a press conference ahead of Inter Milan’s Champions League match against Real Madrid. He was asked about Messi’s retirement. He said that even though the news was expected, the news still hit him hard. He said that Messi represents a lot for the national team and for the country.
Martinez added that he spoke with Messi after the announcement. He said a few words to thank him. He thanked Messi for teaching them and guiding them toward success. He noted that Messi went through difficult moments and never gave up. Martinez said he will carry that lesson with him. He also said they experienced very intense moments together on a daily basis.
Martinez led the team to Copa America glory in 2024 and won the Golden Boot in that tournament. He enjoyed playing alongside Messi in attack. He was part of the squad for every major triumph for Argentina since 2021. He will be one of the team’s most important players after Messi’s departure. He has scored 40 goals in 84 appearances for Argentina.
In other news, Carlos Tevez has reportedly invited Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo to his testimonial match in December. The former Argentina international is set to hold the match four years after his retirement. According to reports, Tevez has invited both players to play at La Bombonera, the home of Boca Juniors. He intends for both to play on the same team after nearly two decades of rivalry at the highest level. Tevez played alongside Messi for Argentina before retiring from international football in 2015. He was also teammates with Ronaldo at Manchester United between 2007 and 2009.
Sets Champions League Goal With Inter and Praises Kylian Mbappe Ahead of Real Madrid Clash
Inter Milan captain Lautaro Martinez believes that winning the Champions League is a realistic objective for his team. He spoke at a press conference ahead of Inter’s first match of the 2026-27 Champions League campaign. The match will be played against Real Madrid at the Bernabeu on Tuesday evening. He said the team have prepared well and recovered their energy.
Lautaro responded to comments made by Kylian Mbappe. Mbappe had said that Inter deserve respect and that Lautaro is among the greatest centre-forwards in the world. Lautaro said he heard what Mbappe had to say. He acknowledged that Real Madrid have many top players. However, he said Inter have their own weapons and players who prove their quality year after year. He also described Mbappe as one of the best strikers in the world.
Lautaro was asked how Inter manage to perform well against big teams. He said it depends on the opposition they face. The team adjusts their approach according to the opponent. He said it is normal to follow what the coach asks of them.
Inter were knocked out in the round of 16 last season. That was considered a disappointment by their recent standards. Lautaro said it is important to learn from mistakes. He expects to do his best and take Inter as far as possible this year.
Lautaro was asked if winning the Champions League is a genuine target or more of a dream. He said it is an objective. He said everyone has dreams, but this is more than just an obsession. The team has to stay calm and know that there are many strong teams. He said it is definitely a goal for them. He has always repeated that they need to work hard to deliver as many trophies as possible for Inter.
Spanish journalists asked about Julian Alvarez’s current situation at Atletico Madrid. Lautaro said Alvarez is a friend of his. He acknowledged that it is not an easy moment for him. He said the decision was made by the president of his club. He hopes Alvarez continues to show the level he always has.
FAQs
Q. What did Lautaro thank Messi for?
A. Lautaro thanked Messi for teaching and guiding them.
Q. How many goals has Lautaro scored for Argentina?
A. Lautaro has scored 40 goals in 84 appearances.
Q. Does Lautaro consider the Champions League a goal for Inter?
A. Yes. Lautaro said winning it is a clear objective.
Q. What did Lautaro say about Kylian Mbappe?
A. Lautaro called Mbappe one of the best strikers in the world.
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