Lautaro Martinez is ‘proud’ to be Inter captain for 2023-24 but confirms Romelu Lukaku ‘didn’t pick up the phone.’
Inter thought they’d sign Lukaku on a permanent €40m deal from Chelsea, but the Belgian striker didn’t even listen to Inter’s offer or reply to calls from club directors and players.
“I was disappointed, that’s the truth,” his former striker partner Lautaro Martinez told Gazzetta.
“I tried to call him, but he never picked up the phone and did the same with other teammates. After many years and many things experienced together, I was disappointed. However, it’s his choice and I wish him the best.”
When the journalist asked Lautaro if he expected such behaviour from his ex-teammate, El Toro replied simply replied: “No.”
The Nerazzurri have signed Marcus Thuram on a free transfer, but need one more striker as Edin Dzeko has also left.
“Marcus is more similar to Edin, he likes to get the ball far from the box, play with the team and link up, but I’ve always adapted to everyone as a centre forward or support striker,” said Lautaro who has been named as new Inter captain, following Samir Handanovic’s departure.
“I am prepared and proud. I want to live up to the great champions who had the armband in the past,” said the striker.
“It’s true that some important players left and now we have a young group. I’ll start my sixth season here, I know everything, I understand everything and I put what I know at everyone’s disposal.”
What has he told new signings?
“Just one thing. If you are here it’s because you have something,” El Toro revealed.
“You’ve been chosen and you are not here by coincidence. You have the quality, strength and mentality to play at San Siro. Give your all and fans will do the rest with their love.”
Lautaro has reportedly snubbed offers from the Saudi Pro League and confirmed he’s happy with the Nerazzurri.
“It’s true, there were offers, but I am happy at Inter and in Milano. I have no reasons to change and my family thinks the same,” he admitted.
“Inter is like a second home. Everyone have shown their love since I arrived. I’ll never forget it. I come from a humble family. I had difficult moments as a kid, when people help me, I appreciate it.”
What has he learned from coach Simone Inzaghi?
“He made me understand that one can work and improve also with a smile. It’s something that makes me positive all time, also when results are not there,” noted Lautaro.
“Being a father has made me grow. A second child will arrive now. He’ll be called Theo. I decided on the name. I’ve wanted this name since I imagined becoming a father. Augustina and I had agreed she’d choose the name for the girl, and I’d pick the one for the boy.”
Where does he see himself in five years?
“I don’t know. I don’t like to mix present and future, now I want to enjoy Inter.”
Lautaro, 25, joined Inter in 2018 from Racing Club and has scored 102 goals in 238 games with the Serie A giants. His contract at the Stadio Meazza runs out in June 2026.