Inter Milan captain Lautaro Martinez insists he deserves to be in the conversation among the best players in the world following his exploits last season.
The 27-year-old led the Nerazzurri towards the Serie A title. He won the Capacannoniere Award after outscoring every other striker in the league, and was named the MVP of the Serie A season.
The Argentina international then went on to play a pivotal role in his nation’s Copa America triumph in the summer.
Martinez once again delivered the goods on the international level last night when the Albiceleste hosted Chile in a World Cup qualifier.
Although he wasn’t on the scoresheet, the Inter skipper was integral in Argentina’s 3-0 victory. He freed Alexis Mac Allister on the opening goal and delighted the Monumental with flashes of brilliance.
Inter Milan Striker Lautaro Martinez Insists He Deserves To Be In The Running For Ballon D’Or
After the match, Lautaro opened up on his Ballon d’Or credentials after landing on the 30-man shortlist.
The striker feels he deserved his nomination following the levels he displayed over the past year.
“The Ballon d’Or? Given the season I’ve had, I definitely deserve to be in the running,” he told TNT Sports (via FcInterNews) in his post-match interview.
“I’ve worked really hard to get to this level. It’s the second time in a row that I’ve reached the final phase of the Ballon d’Or. I think I have what it takes to be there.”
Martinez has been playing his football at San Siro since making the move from Racing Club in 2018.
He has slowly but surely established himself as the ultimate star at the club. He recently signed a new and improved contract, pushing back the deadline until June 2029.
