"The coach pushed us a lot, even though we were eliminated," Martinez said after the match at Bank of America Stadium. "The message is clear: those who want to stay, stay; those who don't, should leave. We represent a big club and must compete for important objectives."
The Argentinian striker clarified that his statement wasn't directed at any specific teammate but served as a reminder to everyone. "I won't name names. We are here to give our all, but I've seen things I don't like. I'm the captain, the leader of this group, so I have to speak up," he said. "The message is very clear: if you don't want to stay and compete for titles, say goodbye."
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Lautaro Martinez during Inter Milan's 0-2 loss to Fluminense in the round of 16 of the FIFA Club World Cup at Bank of America Stadium, North Carolina, USA, 30/6/2025. Photo: Reuters |
Lautaro Martinez during Inter Milan's 0-2 loss to Fluminense in the round of 16 of the FIFA Club World Cup at Bank of America Stadium, North Carolina, USA, 30/6/2025. Photo: Reuters
According to Football Italy, Martinez's message was aimed at Hakan Calhanoglu, the midfielder reportedly in talks with Galatasaray. The 31-year-old Turkish player missed the entire FIFA Club World Cup due to injury.
New coach Cristian Chivu responded to his player's comments, stating that he couldn't be as direct. "I have to be a bit more diplomatic," he expressed. "But the message applies to everyone. After a difficult season, we must strive for self-respect and character, and plan for next season with ambition."
At Bank of America Stadium on 30/6, Inter dominated possession with 68% and had 16 shots, 4 on target, compared to Fluminense's 11 shots with 4 on target. However, the Italian side squandered several opportunities, including Lautaro Martinez hitting the post, Federico Dimarco's free-kick narrowly missing the net, and Stefan de Vrij shooting wide from close range.
Inter's defense was also shaky, conceding two goals to Fluminense. The 0-2 defeat leaves Inter trophyless this season, following losses in the Italian Super Cup final, the Italian Cup semi-final, losing the Serie A title to Napoli, and a 0-5 thrashing by PSG in the Champions League final.
Martinez admitted Inter started poorly, conceding an early goal and losing possession too frequently. The 27-year-old believed the team played better in the second half but were fatigued, both physically and mentally, due to the hot weather. He apologized to the fans and promised to aim for a more successful season next year.
Hong Duy (according to Football Italy)
