Inter Milan striker Lautaro Martinez could be looking for a bit of personal revenge from the World Cup in next month’s Champions League final against Man City.
This is the suggestion in today’s print edition of Turin-based newspaper Tuttosport, via FCInterNews, who note that a good performance by the 25-year-old would come as a real statement after he had been benched for City striker Julain Alvarez at the World Cup in Qatar.
Winning the World Cup with Argentina certainly represented a personal triumph for Inter striker Martinez.
When the 25-year-old returned from Qatar, it was as though something had been awakened in. Since the winter break, Martinez has been in some of his very best form for the Nerazzurri.
Moreover, it hasn’t just been goals and holdup play from Martinez.
The Argentine has also looked at times like he has a newfound sense of belief, and leadership qualities. On a number of occasions, Martinez has worn the captain’s armband for Inter.
Lautaro Martinez Looking For World Cup Revenge Vs Man City
However, in truth, it was not a particularly positive World Cup for Martinez on an individual level.
The Inter striker started the Albiceleste’s first two matches, but did not play particularly well.
This led to Martinez dropping to the bench in Argentina’s final group stage. Man City striker Alvarez took the Inter striker’s place, and never looked back.
Alvarez was Argentina’s starting striker for the remainder of the tournament.
Martinez did have his contribution to make. The 25-year-old scored the decisive penalty in a quarterfinal shootout against the Netherlands. Then, in the final, he helped set up Lionel Messi’s stoppage time goal.
Still, the sense was that the Nerazzurri man had not quite lived up to expectations in Qatar.
Alvarez, by contrast, was seen as a real breakout star at the tournament.
Now, Martinez has been playing some of his best football for Inter. Meanwhile, Alvarez has certainly had flashes, but is not first-choice in attack. The presence of Erling Haaland has made sure of that.
Accordingly, Tuttosport suggests, if Martinez can lead Inter to victory over City next month, it would represent something of a personal vindication.
Despite having been outshone by Alvarez at the World Cup, the Inter striker has the chance to be the undoubted star of the two in Istanbul.
