Lautaro Martinez Targets Champions League Glory with Inter and Backs Messi to Shine Again

Inter Milan striker Lautaro Martinez has set his sights firmly on Champions League glory, declaring that Europe's biggest prize is a genuine objective for the Nerazzurri this season — while also taking a moment to hail Lionel Messi, insisting that 'we all knew Messi's time would come.' As reported by Football Italia, the Argentina international spoke with characteristic confidence about his club's ambitions on the continental stage. After coming agonizingly close in recent campaigns, Martinez believes this Inter squad has the experience, depth, and hunger to finally go all the way. 'Winning the Champions League is our objective,' Martinez said. 'We have grown a lot as a team, we've learned from the difficult moments, and now we are ready to compete at the highest level.' The bond between Lautaro and Messi was another central theme of his comments. The two forwards spearheaded Argentina's triumphant 2022 World Cup campaign in Qatar, and Martinez was quick to dismiss any doubts that had surrounded the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner during his tougher spells. 'We all knew Messi's time would come,' Martinez explained. 'When people doubted him, we never did. He showed in Qatar what he is capable of, and he keeps showing it every day.' With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon — to be hosted across the United States, Mexico, and Canada — Argentina will head into the tournament as defending champions, and Martinez is already dreaming of another summer of glory alongside his captain. 'Playing another World Cup with Leo and this group would be incredible,' he added. 'We have a beautiful generation of players, and we will fight to defend what we won in Qatar.' For Inter, the immediate focus remains domestic and European success, with Martinez's leadership proving instrumental both on and off the pitch. His prolific scoring record and tireless work rate have made him the heartbeat of the Italian champions, and his European ambition reflects a dressing room that believes its moment may also be near. As for Messi, now starring for Inter Miami, the countdown to 2026 continues. If Lautaro's prediction holds true once more, football fans could witness one final chapter of the Messi story on the biggest stage of all — with the World Cup trophy once again within touching distance. One thing is certain: whether wearing Inter's famous black and blue stripes or Argentina's sky blue and white, Lautaro Martinez is determined to keep winning — and he fully expects those around him to do the same.