Lautaro MartÃnez spoke at a press conference before the Champions League final.
MartÃnez will play in his second Champions League final on Saturday and spoke at a press conference on Friday. The Argentine commented on a number of different topics before the final against Paris Saint-Germain. When asked about what it would mean to win the Champions League final, here is what he had to say:
“I’ve achieved some very big objectives in my career, both at international level and with Inter. The Champions League is an extraordinary achievement for any player. We’ll try to play the perfect game to bring the trophy back to Italy, to Milano, where it hasn’t been for a few years.”
You’ve won the World Cup and played in crucial finals: how do you approach a match like this?
“Details are always crucial in games like these. We need to stay focused. We know what we have to do, and we’ve prepared very well.”
How do you feel on the eve of this match?
“I carry a responsibility as captain, but every game is important. This is the Champions League final; everyone understands the value of this trophy. We have to keep playing like we have done throughout our journey. We have immense respect for our opponents, but we also have the qualities to do very well.”
Do you ever think that winning this trophy could lead to the Ballon d’Or?
“Individual awards don’t mean much – they’re always secondary. It’s not about Lautaro. Of course, it’s great to receive personal recognition, but I play to bring joy to the Inter fans. I’ve been in Italy for seven years, and everyone knows me and my qualities. But what matters most – at Inter and with my national team – is my ability to help the team.”
Has this been your breakout season in Europe?
“It’s been a special season in Europe, that’s true – I’ve scored a lot. I try to improve every day. My mindset hasn’t changed: I want to grow, help the team and keep reaching for new goals. I’m proud of my journey, and we’ve reached our second final in three years thanks to this group’s sacrifice, work and humility.”
What has changed in the two years since the Istanbul final?
“We’ve grown and improved. We’ve faced strong opponents in very difficult stadiums: we’ve won where the home team hadn’t lost in a long, long time. We’ve earned everyone’s respect. Now, we have the chance to bring this trophy home, and hopefully we can make it count this time. We’ll try to play the perfect match.”
Lautaro MartÃnez in the Champions League with Inter. pic.twitter.com/JujplLn0nh
— Roy Nemer (@RoyNemer) May 30, 2025
