Inter Milan Vice-President Hits Back At Lautaro Martinez Critics: “It’s Absurd, He Always Gives His Soul”

Inter Milan vice-president Javier Zanetti slammed Lautaro Martinez’s critics amid El Toro’s underwhelming run of form.

Speaking to Italian journalist Gianluca Rossi via FCInterNews, the former Nerazzurri captain called such criticism absurd.

Lautaro Martinez has endured a challenging start to the season, netting just six goals in 13 Serie A matches.

However, the 28-year-old was decisive on Sunday, netting a match-winning brace in a 2-0 win at Pisa.

Furthermore, he had netted four goals in his first three Champions League outings under Cristian Chivu.

Even when failing to score, the Argentine superstar leaves his heart and soul on the pitch.

Indeed, he has been a true leader of this Nerazzurri team for years.

Therefore, it makes no sense that he has come under fire despite hitting occasional barren runs in Serie A.

Inter Milan Vice-President Javier Zanetti Jumps to Lautaro Martinez Defense Amid Unfair Criticism

MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 30: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale celebrates after scoring their team’s first goal during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD2 match between FC Internazionale Milano and SK Slavia Praha at Stadio San Siro on September 30, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

“Absurd,” Zanetti said. The criticism of Lautaro is absurd. We’re talking about our captain, someone who always gives his heart.

“He has a great sense of belonging. He shouldn’t be judged only by the goals he scores but by everything he brings to us.

“I find the criticism directed at him absurd, though I don’t think he pays much attention to it.”

Meanwhile, Zanetti also explained Josep Martinez’s complex situation following a tragic car accident in October.

“We all know what he has gone through, and the club has always been close to him,” he stated. “He’s recovering; it’s not easy.

“We hope he’ll be able to play some matches when Chivu considers it the right moment to field him.”

Finally, Zanetti assessed Inter’s season so far.

“It’s a very balanced league. Despite the defeats that came undeservedly, we’re still up there.

“In Pisa, we gave a great response after the derby and the match against Atletico Madrid.

“Two defeats that were tough to swallow, given how they happened. But that’s football, we acknowledge it.

“The most important thing is that we always analyze ourselves to keep improving because I believe this Inter can be a protagonist.”