Lautaro Martinez believes that Inter has earned the respect of Europe's elite after their run to the Champions League final, where they will be confronted with Paris Saint-Germain on Saturday.
Inter is again out for European glory in Munich, competing in their seventh European Cup/UEFA Champions League -final and first since 2023.
The side of Simone Inzaghi was beaten two years ago by Manchester City with 1-0 in the showpiece competition, with Serie A Serie A Runner-Up for revenge this time.
Martinez is the key to the success of Inter in the Champions League and scored in the last 16, quarterfinals and semi -final of the competition of this season, and could join an elite group of players if he would find the back of the net in the final.
Indeed, only Frank Lampard in 2007-08, Diego Milito in 2009-10, Lionel Messi in 2010-11, Cristiano Ronaldo in 2013-14 and Sadio Mane in 2017-18 managed to do this.
The Argentina International also wants to become the first internal player with 10 goals in a major European season (currently nine), but he has only one focus in Munich.
“I scored many goals in important Champions League matches,” said Martinez.
“I am glad that I play my second final in three years, which is due to the hard work, the sacrifice and humility of everyone here.
“We have improved as a team, confronted with strong opponents in very difficult atmospheres, defeating parties that had long unbeaten runs.
“Inter earned respect during competition, worked hard, kept our head down and concentrated on ourselves.
“Now we can bring this trophy home after so long and we want the perfect performance.”
Inter -Baas Inzaghi lost the 2023 Champions League final and wants to prevent him from becoming the ninth manager who loses two or more finals.
The only two managers who lose their first final, but win their second are Fabio Capello (Lost 1993, won 1994) and Thomas Tuchel (Lost 2020, won 2021).
But despite the fact that he hangs over him, Inzaghi has had an impressive term of office with Inter, won 141 of his 216 games in all competitions (D41 L34).
Prior to the kick-off, the structure was dominated by reports that Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal Inzaghi has offered a salary of € 30 million per season to leave Inter.
“News comes to the fore every day, we are relaxed, he is still here and works every day to improve the team,” assured Inter Captain Martinez.
“If we win, we will certainly devote it to him, the fans and / or families.”
Martinez has also been seduced many times by huge offers, but was always committed to Inter.
“This club has adopted me as if I was born here, so I will always thank them for what they did for me.
“Tomorrow we can bring this trophy back to Milan and we will try to enjoy this evening because you can't do this every day.”