Turkey Captain Admits He Snubbed Bayern Munich To “To Win Champions League” With Inter Milan | OneFootball

Inter Milan superstar Hakan Calhanoglu opened up on his decision to turn down Bayern Munich last summer.

Speaking to Sport Mediaset via FCInterNews, the 31-year-old discussed numerous exciting topics.

For starters, Hakan Calhanoglu captained Turkey in a 3-0 win at Hungary last evening.

A landslide victory in Budapest saw Vincenzo Montella’s side breeze into the Nations League top tier as 6-1 aggregate winners.

In addition to Calhanoglu, Real Madrid starlet Arda Guler had an impressive game at the Puskas Arena.

The ex-AC Milan playmaker already admitted he would welcome his international colleague at the San Siro with open arms.

“I’ve already spoken about this, so I can’t add anything else. We’ll see what happens.

“But my only thought was for him, for him to get more playing time.”

Then, he hailed Turkey’s achievement in the newest international competition.

“We achieved what we wanted, even if it was through the playoffs.

“We’re happy because we’re in League A, where we deserve to be. We played really well; playing here in Hungary is always tough.

“I think we haven’t lost in 13 matches, and this is only the second time we’ve won here in many years. We’re happy.”

Inter Milan Playmaker Hakan Calhanoglu Explains Why He Rebuffed Bayern Munich Approach Last Summer

MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 25: Hakan Calhanoglu of FC Internazionale celebrates after scoring their team’s second goal during the Coppa Italia, Quarter Final match between FC Internazionale and SS Lazio at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on February 25, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Asked whether Inter can win all four remaining trophies this season, Calhanoglu replied: “Hopefully. We players try to represent Inter in the best way possible.

“We know we have a huge responsibility.

“And we’re on the right path, and we want to keep going like this. Then we’ll see what happens.”

Furthermore, he confirmed his dream is to win the Champions League.

“I’ve already talked about this,” he continued. “I’ve won everything in Italy, and my goal is definitely the Champions League.

“My dream, after losing the final two years ago, is to reach another final and win it.

“But winning another Scudetto is also important.”

If Inter can achieve this incredible feat, there’s a chance for Calhanoglu to fight for the Ballon d’Or.

“Let’s hope so, maybe,” he added.

“We are fighting in all competitions. We players improve with every match.

“Being in the conversation is definitely a goal.”

Calhanoglu also confirmed it was one of the reasons behind his decision to reject Bayern Munich’s offer.

“Yes,” he replied when asked if he turned the Bavarians down to win multiple trophies with Inter this term.

Special Relationship With Inter Milan Fans

“The fans have always supported me; they’ve helped me grow as both a player and a person,” Calhanoglu confirmed.

“I’ve matured, and I always thank them. What they do for us is incredible.

“I’m living a beautiful moment, and I’m always grateful to them.

“Our fans give us incredible strength at the Meazza, and we want to give them something special in return.”

Finally, he addressed Kristjan Asllani’s recent statement in which he named him his mentor.

“I appreciate what he said,” Calhanoglu stated. “Those with more experience help others.

“He is an enormous talent, and he has the quality to play for Inter.

“It’s not easy for him, but we’re supporting him because he deserves more opportunities.

“When he has played, he has done his job well, and he needs to keep going like that.”