Inter Milan Legend Reflects On Argentina Legacy At Club & Describes Captain As “A Role Model” | OneFootball

Javier Zanetti has spoken about leadership and legacy, detailing his transition from captain to vice president of Inter Milan and his pride in the club’s Argentina heritage, with a “happiness” for captain and star forward Lautaro Martinez.

“When I left football, the first thing I understood was that I had to prepare myself,” Zanetti explained, with quotes via FCInterNews.

“I enrolled at Bocconi University, one of the best in Italy, where I completed a master’s degree and will soon write my thesis.

“That experience opened my mind in terms of perspective. As a manager, I realise there are many areas in which we can still improve.”

Asked about two fellow Argentines, Diego Milito and Lautaro Martinez, Zanetti was full of admiration.

“Diego was a very intelligent striker,” he recalled.

“Just think of the year we won the Champions League and the Treble.

“He was vital not only for his goals but also for his commitment to the team.”

Inter Legend & VP Zanetti Hails Captain Lautaro Martinez

MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 30: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale celebrates after scoring their team’s third 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)

On Inter’s current captain, the vice president was equally glowing: “Lautaro makes me happy for how he arrived and how he’s growing. He always works to improve every part of his game.

“He’s the captain of the Nerazzurri and a role model with a great sense of belonging. The fact that he’s Argentinian and captain of Inter is a source of pride for me.”

Zanetti also reflected on the deep Argentinian roots running through the club:

“We Argentines at Inter have a beautiful legacy going back to Helenio Herrera, the coach of the ‘Grande Inter’.

“Many players have passed through here, and there’s always been a family atmosphere.”

Finally, he fondly recalled the 2022 World Cup reunion:

“That embrace in Qatar… I missed Lautaro and Messi. I saw Lautaro, and as I walked toward him someone touched me from behind – it was Messi.”

For Zanetti, both Inter and Argentina remain eternal parts of his identity: two families bound by history, loyalty and shared triumph.