Inter Milan 3-0 Slavia Prague – Poland Star Praises Argentina MOTM: “Fundamental” | OneFootball

Piotr Zielinski highlighted Lautaro Martinez’s importance to Inter Milan after last night’s Champions League win against Slavia Prague.

During his post-match interview via FCInterNews, the Polish midfielder hailed El Toro as a ‘fundamental’ part of this team.

Piotr Zielinski made his first competitive start under new manager Cristian Chivu last night.

Indeed, the 31-year-old got the nod over Nicolo Barella in midfield and fared reasonably well.

Despite lacking minutes this season, the former Napoli ace showed glimpses of his class against sub-par opposition.

Meanwhile, Lautaro Martinez stole the show, netting a match-winning brace to take his Champions League tally to 26 goals.

In doing so, the 28-year-old striker won the ‘Man of the Match’ award.

More importantly, his goals helped the Nerazzurri maintain a perfect record in the Champions League this season.

Moreover, last night’s win extended Inter’s winning streak in all competitions to four games.

Piotr Zielinski Praises ‘Fundamental’ Inter Milan Captain Lautaro Martinez

MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 30: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale celebrates after scoring their team’s first goal during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD2 match between FC Internazionale Milano and SK Slavia Praha at Stadio San Siro on September 30, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

First of all, Piotr Zielinski underscored the importance of taking three points last night.

“It was important to win tonight,” he said. “Slavia is a tough team.

“However, we approached the game well, showed our qualities, and I’m happy we got the victory.”

Then, he hailed the team’s recovery after a heartbreaking Derby d’Italia defeat at Juventus.

“The awareness that we are strong and have been working hard during the week,” Zielinski added.

“Unfortunately, we had a couple of off games, but we overcame them.

“The other teams are three points ahead, but the season is long, and there are plenty of points to gain.

“We will try to win as many matches as possible to reach the top.

“I think there’s a strong desire to win. Last year, we performed well but didn’t win anything, which was negative for the club.

“This year, we’ll do everything possible to win something.”

Furthermore, Zielinski waxed lyrical about the Argentine superstar.

“Of course, no one needs to talk about him. He’s fundamental for our team.

“He has quality, and it’s a pleasure to play with him, but not only him, because all of us are strong.”

New Manager, Same Winning Mentality

MILAN, ITALY – AUGUST 25: Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of Internazionale, gestures during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Torino FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on August 25, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Asked whether he feels different compared to last season under Simone Inzaghi, Zielinski replied: “I can’t say exactly.

“We have quality, and the coach asks us to do other things. Now we see the results.

“He’s excellent, and we’re working well.

“We’ve been working well with the staff and the coach. That’s our strength.

“What was missing at the start of the season is now showing, and if we continue like this, victories will come.”

Zielinski also delivered his verdict on Inter’s brilliant Champions League start.

“We try to get as many points as possible to move forward,” he continued. “We have the quality to do it.

“It’s a prestigious competition for a player, so motivation comes naturally.

“We’re doing well, and in the league we’ve regained rhythm. We’ll aim to climb back to the top soon.”

Additionally, Zielinski acknowledged that he can still improve his game.

“Let’s say there’s still room for improvement.

“The coach gave me this opportunity, and I think he believes in my qualities. I’m happy and will always try to do better.”

He also hopes to perform better than last season.

“Definitely more than last year. I need to improve here. This could be the right season.”

Finally, he admitted he only wants to play, no matter where.

“Wherever the coach plays me, I try to do my best. My natural position is mezzala, but I could also play deeper.

“I have the qualities for this role, and if I get the chance, I’ll give my maximum.”