Inter President Marotta Laments: “Lautaro Martinez Deserves More Respect” | OneFootball

Inter president Giuseppe Marotta feels his club captain Lautaro Martinez isn’t earning the respect he deserves on the global stage.

The Argentine striker is coming off an incredible season. He led the Nerazzurri to an unforgettable Scudetto triumph that unlocked the club’s second star. He finished the campaign as top goalscorer and was also named the MVP of the Serie A season.

The 27-year-old was also decisive in Argentina’s successful Copa America defense. He came off the bench to score the winner in the final against Colombia, rounding up a sensational season. And while some might suggest that the South American tournament is less significant than Euro 2024, it remains one of the most streamed sports events worldwide in 2024.

But despite his incredible feats, Lautaro was shunned by the organizers of the Best FIFA Football Awards 2024, as he didn’t even make it to the 12-man shortlist. Instead, his compatriot Lionel Messi made the cut despite his waning relevance on the big stage, while several Real Madrid stars got the nod after winning the Champions League, including Dani Carvajal who also clinched the Euro 2024 with Spain.

For his part, Marotta insists Martinez isn’t receiving the plaudits he deserves from the organizers, insisting his club’s talisman should have been on the list.

“It is surprising and disappointing that Lautaro Martinez was not considered among the candidates for FIFA’s Best Player Award after an exceptional season,” said the Nerazzurri president in a statement to ANSA (via FcInterNews).

“His extraordinary performances led Inter to a historic achievement. He also had a big hand in the Argentine national team’s Copa America triumph. He was also the top scorer in both competitions.

“Lautaro deserves more respect and greater recognition. This exclusion seems to ignore not only the numbers and accolades but also the impact he had in decisive matches. This is a negative signal, players who stand out in such an important way should be rewarded. We hope that in the future due recognition will be given to those who, like Lautaro, continue to shine on the pitch.” concluded Marotta.

While he hasn’t been able to replicate the same feats thus far this season, Martinez remains one of the most elemental players at the club, and among the biggest stars in Serie A.

The Italian champions have recently rewarded his great contribution to the cause with a new and improved contract valid until June 2029. He is now the second-highest earner in Italian football, only behind Dusan Vlahovic.