SempreInter.Com
·13 May 2025
Nerazzurri Vice-President Reveals Argentina Megastar ‘Cried’ After Inter Milan Vs Barcelona Champions League Classic

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Yahoo sportsSempreInter.Com
·13 May 2025
Javier Zanetti confirmed Lautaro Martinez had an emotional breakdown after Inter Milan’s nail-biting triumph over Barcelona.
Speaking to ESPN via FCInterNews, the Nerazzurri vice-president admitted El Toro lost it after the final whistle.
Inter and Barcelona made a spectacle of their Champions League semi-final showdown.
One of the most enthralling knockout ties in recent memory saw the Italians reach the final as 7-6 aggregate winners.
Indeed, after a 3-3 draw at Montjuic, Inter needed extra-time to beat the runaway La Liga leaders at San Siro.
Despite not being 100% fit, Lautaro Martinez gritted his teeth to help his side navigate this mouth-watering tie.
The 27-year-old opened the scoring and drew a crucial penalty toward the end of the first half.
However, Simone Inzaghi had to take him off midway through the second half due to a lack of match fitness.
Unfazed by Lautaro’s withdrawal, Inter pieced together a remarkable performance to edge Los Blaugranas.
Emotional scenes at the final whistle didn’t bypass the Argentina superstar.
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 16: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale celebrates after scoring their team’s first goal during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 Quarter Final Second Leg match between FC Internazionale Milano and FC Bayern München at San Siro on April 16, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“Lauti had a terrible week, he didn’t know if he would make it, he cried when the game ended,” Zanetti stated.
“He showed great heart, he wanted to be there, and he did a fantastic job.
“He’s our captain, and the commitment he showed is commendable, as is everything he conveyed to the team.”
Meanwhile, Zanetti praised Barcelona teen sensation Lamine Yamal for his outstanding performances in both legs.
“I saw him in the first leg, and he has a young face,” the Inter chief continued. “He plays really well and has a great future.
“Sometimes he’s unstoppable because you don’t know where he’s coming from.
“If you hesitate, he’ll beat you… You need help from the midfielders and central defenders.
“In one-on-one situations, he’ll most likely get the better of you because of his extraordinary technique and speed.
“He reminds me of Messi’s best moments when he was just starting out, when you didn’t know where he would appear.
“This kid shows great personality, always wants the ball, knows he has the quality to play, and is not afraid of anything.”
Finally, Zanetti discussed Inter’s rumored interest in River Plate prodigy Franco Mastantuono.
“He’s a player that anyone would want, and he’d do really well in any team.
“For Inter, he’s an expensive profile.
“River Plate is doing a great job, but I don’t know how long they will be able to enjoy him.”