Lautaro Martinez: Ballon d’Or verdict ‘unfair’ | OneFootball

Inter striker Lautaro Martinez has become the best foreign scorer for the Nerazzurri, but admits he expected ‘more’ from the 2024 Ballon d’Or: ‘These awards are unfair sometimes.’

Lautaro contributed to Inter’s 3-0 win over Empoli on Wednesday, becoming the most prolific foreign scorer for the Nerazzurri, but the Argentinean wasn’t exactly in a celebratory mood after the game.

Lautaro star was delighted with the team’s performance but admitted he expected more than a 7th-placed finish at the Ballon d’Or earlier this week.

Lautaro Martinez: Ballon d’Or verdict ‘unfair’

EMPOLI, ITALY – OCTOBER 30: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale reacts during the Serie A match between Empoli and FC Internazionale at Stadio Carlo Castellani on October 30, 2024 in Empoli, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)

“Surely, it’s possible to improve. Honestly, I expected more, but I work for Inter and the Argentina national team,” Lautaro told DAZN.

“These awards are unfair sometimes, but I am happy with the work I am doing. I am getting back in shape. As you know, I started the pre-season later after a long campaign. I didn’t rest much and played a lot, so it’s normal to be tired. But we all try to do our best, and we must continue because the season is still long.”

The Nerazzurri have cemented second place in Serie A and remain four points behind leaders Napoli.

Davide Frattesi scored a brace in the second half at Empoli after the Tuscans’ defender Saba Goglichidze had been sent off, while Lautaro netted the third goal for the Nerazzurri.

“Empoli are in shape and tough to face. They have physicality, and they play well in midfield,” the Argentinean striker continued.

“We prepared the game in the best way. It’s easier when you are up one man, but you have to win games. Not conceding was important. We really needed these three points.”

Inter’s next Serie A game is against Venezia at San Siro on November 3. The defending Serie A champions will then face Arsenal in the Champions League and Napoli in Serie A before the international break next month.