Lautaro Martinez targets double with Inter after injury return
Lautaro Martinez has declared his readiness to lead Inter Milan's charge for the Serie A title and the Coppa Italia upon his return from injury. The club captain, speaking to Dazn in Milan, confirmed he will start against Roma this weekend after a calf problem sustained in the Europa League match against Bodo/Glimt sidelined him for seven club games and international duty.
Martinez dismissed the idea that his absence was the sole cause for a recent dip in Inter's results, but emphasized the need for a shift in attitude. "We have to relax, be calm and enjoy ourselves. This is what brought success to Inter," the Argentine striker said. "The attitude is the most important thing to face matches the right way. I don't think the results depended on my absence; a drop can happen. Now we change gear and show a different attitude."
The 26-year-old, who is currently Serie A's top scorer, stressed the importance of unity within the squad to achieve the remaining objectives. Inter currently sit top of the league table, a position Martinez pointed to as evidence of the team's strong work over the season so far. His return provides a major boost for Simone Inzaghi's side as they enter the decisive phase of the campaign.
Martinez also briefly addressed the disappointment surrounding the Italian national team, which failed to qualify for the World Cup while he was away with Argentina. He called for support for the Azzurri players but was clear that the Inter squad must now focus solely on club matters. "Football is like that, you have to turn the page," he stated. "We have two important objectives on our path; there's no time to think about what happened."
The forward's injury came at an inopportune time, coinciding with a minor stumble for Inter that included a Coppa Italia semi-final first-leg defeat to Juventus. His proven goal-scoring record and leadership are viewed as critical components for navigating the final weeks of the season. Since joining Inter from Racing Club in 2018, Martinez has developed into one of Europe's most consistent forwards and a pivotal figure for the Nerazzurri.
His immediate focus will be on securing the Serie A title, with Inter holding a significant advantage at the summit. The club also remains in contention for the Coppa Italia, needing to overturn a one-goal deficit against Juventus in the second leg of their semi-final next month. Martinez's return from injury effectively marks the start of the season's final push for silverware under his captaincy.
