Inter Milan Captain Makes History With Argentina & Returns Early To Prepare For Decisive AC Milan Derby | OneFootball

It has been a landmark week for Lautaro Martinez, who continues to rewrite the record books for both Inter Milan and Argentina.

After drawing level with Sandro Mazzola on 161 goals to become the Nerazzurri’s joint-fourth top scorer, the captain has now achieved the same feat with his national team.

His strike against Angola lifted him to 36 international goals, moving past Hernan Crespo into fourth place on Argentina’s all-time list.

But as La Gazzetta dello Sport points out, “the most beautiful story is still to be written” – starting with the upcoming Milan derby on November 23.

Argentina Star Lautaro Martinez’s Early Return A Rare Boost For Inter Milan Coach Chivu

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)

Unlike previous international breaks, Lautaro will rejoin Cristian Chivu’s squad unusually early.

“On Tuesday Lautaro will already be at Appiano Gentile, alongside the Italy internationals returning from San Siro,” reports La Gazzetta.

That gives Inter’s captain a full five days of training before the derby, a rarity for the striker, often returning jet-lagged and short on preparation time.

In the friendly against Angola, described as a “cash-rich showcase for the world champions”, Lautaro was decisive once again, scoring one goal and setting up another for Lionel Messi.

“At the 43rd minute Messi assisted Lautaro, and in the 82nd the Toro returned the favour,” adds La Gazzetta.

Now back in Milan, the Argentine captain turns his focus to the next chapter.