Lautaro Martinez has insisted the Inter Milan Champions League defeat to Liverpool came down to a refereeing mistake, arguing his side “threw everything away because of an injustice.”

The Nerazzurri captain spoke to La Gazzetta dello Sport after receiving the 2025 Performance of the Year award, reflecting on recent setbacks and outlining his expectations for the rest of the season.

“We’re disappointed, but not angry,” he said when asked about the Anfield loss. “If you lose because of a referee’s error, there’s not much you can do. If every tug was given as a penalty, the game would never be played.”

Inter Milan Captain Lautaro Reflects On Liverpool & PSG Defeats

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

Lautaro also addressed last season’s heartbreak in the Champions League final in Munich. “We’ve moved on. Defeats hurt, but they help you grow. Some results haven’t gone our way, but we need time. Cristian Chivu is giving us great energy and we feel we’re improving every day.”

On the Scudetto fight, the Inter captain was clear that it will not be limited to the traditional trio. “I include Roma as well, I really like their coach,” he said, widening the title picture to four contenders.

Martinez refused to prioritise one trophy over another, stressing Inter want to push deep into every competition. “We want to go all the way, like we have in recent years. Playing two Champions League finals in three seasons is not something to take for granted.”

He also praised young forwards Francesco Pio Esposito and Ange-Yoan Bonny. “Pio is serious and humble, let him grow in peace and he’ll become a pillar for Inter and Italy. Bonny has strength and quality and is helping us a lot.”

Finally, Lautaro reaffirmed his desire to stay at the club for life. “My family and I feel great in Milan. I’ve just signed a new contract, I have no reason to leave.”