An emotional Lautaro Martínez has called for a flawless performance from Inter Milan ahead of their historic UEFA Champions League Final against Paris Saint-Germain, declaring that “only perfection” will be enough to lift the trophy.
The Argentine striker, who captains Inter into Saturday’s final at the Allianz Arena in Munich, was moved to tears during a pre-match interview with Sky Sport Italia.
A surprise video featuring heartfelt messages from his parents, wife, and children overwhelmed the forward, who credited his family for his strength and resilience.
“It is difficult to talk, because they push me to never give up,” Martínez said through tears.
“I want to thank them and dedicate the Champions League victory to them.”
This will be Inter’s first-ever competitive meeting with PSG, with both clubs having come heartbreakingly close in recent years.
PSG lost the 2020 final to Bayern Munich, while Inter were narrowly beaten by Manchester City in 2023.
Now, under the leadership of Martínez and coach Simone Inzaghi, the Nerazzurri are aiming to reclaim European glory for the first time since 2010.
“We need the perfect performance,” Martínez stated during his press conference.
“Being captain brings more responsibility, but we must approach this like every game is a final. Only one team wins, but we must give everything and think positively.”
The 27-year-old has played a key role in Inter’s road to the final, scoring nine goals in 13 Champions League appearances, including goals in six of his last seven games.
He praised the team’s collective effort, resilience, and determination throughout the tournament.
“We’ve improved as a team, faced strong opponents, and ended some long unbeaten runs,” he said.
“We earned respect by working hard and focusing on ourselves.”
The buildup to the final has been overshadowed by reports that Saudi club Al-Hilal have offered manager Simone Inzaghi a staggering €30m per year to leave Inter.
However, Martínez dismissed the speculation, saying it hasn’t affected the squad’s focus.
“We’re relaxed. He’s still here and working every day to improve the team,” Martínez noted. “If we win, it will be for him, for the fans, and for our families.”
Martínez also reaffirmed his loyalty to the club amid past transfer interest.
“This club adopted me as if I was born here. I’ll always thank them for what they did for me,” he said.
“Tomorrow, we have the chance to bring this trophy back to Milan – and we’ll give everything to make it happen.”
