Lautaro Martinez insists Champions League victory is a concrete objective for Inter | OneFootball

Lautaro Martinez has set a firm tone for Inter’s season, stating the Champions League is a concrete target as they start away to Real Madrid.

Inter visit the Bernabeu on Tuesday to launch their 2026-27 campaign. According to Goal.com, the captain said the Nerazzurri are beyond dreaming after recent near-misses, with the club last lifting the trophy in 2010 under current Madrid boss Jose Mourinho and losing finals in 2023 and 2025.

Martinez framed it as an objective rather than an obsession, called for calm, and noted the depth of elite opponents. He added that since arriving he has consistently stressed hard work to bring as many trophies as possible to Inter.

The tie sets up a meeting with Kylian Mbappe, a self-professed Milan fan who has praised Inter and described Martinez as among the best centre-forwards around. Acknowledging Madrid’s individual quality, Martinez said Cristian Chivu’s side have the flexibility and weapons to compete on their turf.

Turning to international matters, he addressed Argentina team-mate Julian Alvarez, who wanted to leave Atletico Madrid for Barcelona this summer but saw the move blocked by club management, leaving him to continue under Diego Simeone. Martinez offered support and hopes Alvarez can come through the situation while maintaining his high level.

Source: Goal.com

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