In a recent interview with Sky Italia (translated by goal.com), Inter Milan striker Lautaro Martinez rubbished speculation surrounding his future at the San Siro and said, “Inter is my home.
“That’s something very important for me.
“I try to work hard and prove with humility on the pitch that I deserve to wear this shirt. I want to bring as much joy as possible to the Nerazzurri fans and my family.”
Marca had recently reported that Manchester City have joined the chase to secure the services of the Argentine forward. Therefore, the South American sensation’s latest revelation will be a bitter pill to swallow for the Citizens and their quest to find a long-term replacement for Sergio Aguero.
Martinez’s Prolific Goal-Scoring Record At The San Siro This Season
Martinez has made a prolific start to this Serie A campaign after putting in some eye-catching performances for Antonio Conte’s side so far. He has netted 13 goals and provided three assists in 19 appearances for Inter this term on all fronts. The Argentina international is averaging 4.2 shots, 0.9 key passes and 1.0 dribbles per game in the Italian top-flight (stats via whoscored).
The 22-year-old frontman has also secured 18 senior caps for Argentina while scoring nine goals for his homeland in the process.
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Martinez can make a few well-timed runs behind the opposition backline, but he is more suited to dribbling with the ball at his feet. The Argentine marksman has a knack for finding space in the final third and has transformed himself into a prolific goal-scorer over the past couple of years.
Martinez Staying At Milan: Big Blow For Pep?
Hence, missing out on Martinez will be a massive blow for Pep Guardiola as the Serie A marksman would have been a perfect successor to Aguero at the Etihad. At 31, the Man City veteran forward is in the twilight years of his playing career. Therefore, Guardiola needs to find a long-term replacement for the club legend before he hangs up his boots soon.
Gabriel Jesus has been a worthy deputy during the Argentine’s injury absence in recent weeks. However, the Brazilian striker has often lacked consistency in a Man City shirt. Hence, the Citizens would be better off recruiting another potent option up top if they are to continue their relentless push to win more silverware under Guardiola in the coming years.
