Legendary Italian defender Claudio Gentile admits he would have loved to go head-to-head against Inter Milan captain Lautaro Martinez.
The 70-year-old was one of the fiercest defenders of his era. During his heyday, he was a thorn in the back of some of the greatest strikers in the sport, including Diego Armando Maradona.
Gentile was a stalwart at the back for Juventus between 1973 and 1984, taking part in a host of Derby d’Italia clashes.
Ahead of Sunday’s big showdown, the 1982 World Cup winner admits that Inter captain Lautaro Martinez is one striker that would have loved to mark.
He also offers Juventus defenders some tips on how to limit the Argentine’s threat.
“Forwards like Lautaro stimulate you, I would have wanted to mark him,” said the Italy legend in his interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport via FcInter1908.
“You have to stay attached to him and prevent him from turning, especially inside the penalty box.”
Juventus Legend Claudio Gentile Would Have Wanted To Mark Inter Milan Superstar Lautaro Martinez
Gentile also pinpoints Inter Milan midfielder Hakan Calhanoglu as another key player that the Bianconeri should keep an eye on.
The retired defender goes on to claim that the Turk represents 50% of Inter’s threat.
“Juve will also have to try to limit Calhanoglu as much as possible. At the moment, Hakan is worth almost 50% of Inter.”
Juventus will host the Nerazzurri at the Allianz Stadium on Sunday. The clash kicks off at 20:45 CET.
