"It’s Been a Long Road—Now It’s Time,” Says Lautaro Martinez Before Champions League final

Inter Milan are all set to face Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Champions League final on Saturday, 31st May. The Italian outfit secured their place in the final after edging past Barcelona in a tightly contested thriller that extended into extra time. With anticipation building for the much-awaited continental showdown, Inter striker Lautaro Martínez has opened up about the tournament and his role in helping the team overcome the final hurdle.

Speaking to the media, Martínez reflected on his journey in the competition, noting that he has scored several crucial goals in the Champions League over the years. He highlighted his pride in being part of an Inter side that has now reached its second final in three years. Recalling their defeat to Manchester City in the 2022/23 final, Martínez stated that the team has grown immensely since then and has managed to overcome clubs with long unbeaten runs on their path to the final. Martínez said:

I scored many goals in important Champions League games,

I am happy to be playing my second Final in three years, which is thanks to the hard work, sacrifice and humility of everyone here. We have improved as a team, facing strong opponents in very difficult atmospheres, defeating sides who had long unbeaten runs. 

Continuing, Lautaro Martinez also mentioned that the side has earned respect as they have kept working hard and focused on themselves while sidelining the noise. He aspired to bring the trophy home after a long wait. The Azzuris had last won their Champions League trophy in 2010 under Jose Mourinho and would want to bring the trophy home after a decade for the fans. He said:

Inter earned respect throughout the competition, working hard, keeping our heads down and focusing on ourselves. Now we can bring this trophy home after such a long time and want the perfect performance.

What record does Simone Inazaghi want to avoid? 

Simone Inzaghi would want to avoid the infamous record of becoming the ninth manager to lose two or more UEFA Champions League finals. However, if he wins the upcoming final, he will join an elite group as only the third manager to win a Champions League final after losing their first.