Lautaro Martinez explains the message for his hometown after securing the 2-0 win over Lazio and insists the objective for Inter this season is ‘to win everything.’
The striker found the net when pouncing on a terrible Adam Marusic back-pass and had prepared a statement on his undershirt, urging his hometown of Bahia Blanca to have strength.
It was a heartfelt dedication, as last night heavy storms struck the area, leading to the collapse of the sports centre roof during an ice skating event, which left 13 dead.
“I went to bed late last night, as it was already becoming clear my hometown was struggling with this storm,” Lautaro Martinez told DAZN.
“I had to keep in touch with my family, I was worried, I hope that things can get back to normal as soon as possible.”
He seems to have really formed a bond with his fellow striker Marcus Thuram and it shows in their performances on the pitch.
“Since the day Marcus arrived he, and all the new signings, have settled in really well. I talk a lot with Marcus and that is important, to have friendship off the field, it makes things easier on the pitch too.
“I am not just talking about him, but the whole squad are friends. We are like a family and work together to achieve the objectives that we set ourselves.”
Inter won the Coppa Italia and Supercoppa Italiana for two years running, but there are no doubts their main aim this season is the Scudetto.
“Over the last six or seven years, Inter have got back to challenging for things like the Champions League Final and we want to keep going.
“The next step will always be the most difficult. We sent a strong message to ourselves more than others, that we can overcome obstacles, that everyone in the squad, staff and physios, we all work together to achieve what we want.”
What is the objective?
“To win everything.”
The Argentina international is on track to be the Capocannoniere with 15 goals in 16 Serie A games so far this season, but is also becoming a leader as the Inter captain.
“I have changed a lot in recent years also because I have a family of my own now, my children changed me. The World Cup also left something in my mind and not all of it was positive, because it was not the performance I wanted and my ankle was hurting. It’s no excuse, it made me want to just keep improving and getting stronger.”
Inter are now four points clear at the top of the Serie A table, as Juve were held to a 1-1 draw by Genoa on Friday.
“Juventus are a quality opponent of a high level, they can win games even when not playing very well, but we must focus on ourselves.”
The Champions League draw for the Round of 16 is on Monday, so who would Lautaro Martinez like to face?
“It doesn’t matter, we need to beat everyone to reach the end.”