Key Takeaways:
- Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni hints at the possibility of resting Lautaro Martinez in Tuesday’s match against Bolivia, which would be welcomed news for Inter Milan.
- Inter is hoping to have their star striker, Lautaro Martinez, rested ahead of the upcoming derby against Milan.
- Scaloni mentions that he has already decided on the starting XI for the upcoming match, and it is likely to be similar to the one that faced Ecuador, barring any unforeseen problems.
- Angel Di Maria and Julian Alvarez are potential options to play in the upcoming match, with Scaloni making a final decision on the morning of the game.
- Lautaro Martinez has been a key player for Inter Milan this season, scoring five goals in the opening three Serie A games of 2023-24.
- He was named Inter’s captain after Samir Handanovic’s departure in June, and his contract with the club runs until June 2026.
Inter Milan’s Hopes for Resting Lautaro Martinez
Inter Milan may receive a boost in their quest to have star striker Lautaro Martinez well-rested ahead of the upcoming derby against Milan. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni has hinted at the possibility of Martinez being replaced by Julian Alvarez in Tuesday’s match against Bolivia.
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni confirms Julian Alvarez could replace Lautaro Martinez in Tuesday’s game against Bolivia, so Inter hope El Toro will be rested ahead of the upcoming derby against Milan. https://t.co/2IDxuuuzKg #Lautaro #FCIM #Inter #Argentina #JulianAlvarez #MCFC
— Football Italia (@footballitalia) September 11, 2023
Martinez started for Argentina in their recent 1-0 victory over Ecuador, contributing to their World Cup defense campaign. However, Argentina has one more fixture scheduled before the end of the September international break, facing Bolivia away on Tuesday.
Scaloni, speaking at a press conference, revealed,
“More or less, I have already decided on the starting XI. It will be similar to the one of the other day [against Ecuador], unless problems emerge.”
He added,
“If nothing happens, I will make just a few changes. Angel Di Maria and Julian Alvarez can play, but I’ll decide on the morning of the game.”
Lautaro Martinez has been a pivotal figure for Inter Milan this season, impressively netting five goals in the initial three Serie A matches of the 2023-24 season. His role at Inter has grown significantly, as he was named the club’s captain following Samir Handanovic’s departure in June. Martinez’s contract with the Serie A giants extends until June 2026.
Nominated for the 2023 Ballon d’Or
Lautaro Martinez @Inter @Argentina #ballondor pic.twitter.com/6dOerxA43A
— Ballon d'Or #ballondor (@ballondor) September 6, 2023
Inter Milan will be hoping that Scaloni’s decision to potentially rest Martinez in the upcoming international fixture will ensure their star striker is in peak condition for the highly anticipated derby della Madonnina against Milan.