Marotta: Lautaro Martinez remains central to Inter’s title ambitions

Inter president Giuseppe Marotta has dismissed speculation over Lautaro Martinez’s future, insisting the club captain has no reason to leave the Serie A champions.

Speaking to DAZN before Inter’s opening match of the 2026-27 Serie A season against Monza, Marotta said the Argentina forward remained a key figure in the club’s present and future.

“Lautaro is our captain and currently represents Inter’s history, and there are no circumstances that could lead him to leave. We should not even be talking about it,” said Marotta.

Martinez has continued to attract attention amid repeated reports concerning his future, but Inter’s president made clear that the 28-year-old remains integral to the team both on the pitch and within the dressing room.

The Argentina international is regarded as one of the leading members of the squad that won the Serie A title. His importance extends beyond his goals and performances, with the club also relying on his leadership as it begins the defence of its championship.

Marotta said Inter would approach the new campaign with the same competitive mindset that helped them achieve success in recent seasons, while acknowledging the increased expectations that come with being Italian champions.

“We have to raise the bar, while recognising that we are the champions of Italy. We begin with the same motivation and objectives that we had last season, holding on to the winning culture that has distinguished us in recent years,” he said.

The Inter president also explained that the club’s long-term project had been built around continuity. However, he admitted that the age profile of several players had to be taken into account during the summer.

Marotta highlighted the experience within the squad, saying the dressing room contains more than 30 winners’ medals. That collective record, he suggested, gives Inter considerable authority and knowledge as they prepare to compete for another title.

Inter’s transfer plans remain open before the market closes. Marotta said the club could still add to its squad, but any decision would be taken in consultation with the manager and according to the team’s requirements.

The club is monitoring opportunities during the final phase of the transfer window and would be prepared to act if a genuine need emerged.

“If a real need appears, we will invest again,” Marotta added, although he also believes the current Inter squad already has the quality required to compete at the highest level.

The champions began their new league campaign against Monza at San Siro, with the match providing an early test of their ability to maintain their position among Italian football’s leading clubs.

Inter’s immediate objective is to retain the Serie A title, but Marotta’s comments underline the club’s belief that Martinez will remain at the centre of that challenge, rather than becoming part of the transfer-market speculation surrounding him.