Lautaro Martinez fighting the clock: Inter Milan’s captain pushes to be ready for Roma

The Argentine forward will return to Italy just three days before the Roma match — Chivu hopes to count on his leader despite the long journey and fatigue

After another demanding international break, Lautaro Martinez is once again racing against time to be available for Inter Milan’s upcoming Serie A showdown with Roma. The Nerazzurri captain will play Argentina’s friendly against Puerto Rico in the early hours of Wednesday (Italian time) and is expected back in Milan only late that afternoon — barely three days before the match at the Stadio Olimpico.

A grueling schedule, but the desire to play is strong

Martinez played the full 90 minutes in Argentina’s previous match against Venezuela, but, as La Gazzetta dello Sport via Fcinter1908 highlights, his determination remains absolute: “Lautaro wants to be there at all costs.”

It’s far from the first time the Argentine striker has been forced into a tight turnaround. His iron will and commitment to Inter Milan have become defining traits of his leadership — a mentality that new head coach Cristian Chivu deeply values.

Inter Milan's plan: No intention to rest their leader

Inside Appiano Gentile, the plan is clear: if Lautaro returns in good physical condition, he will play. His importance to Chivu’s system cannot be overstated — especially since Marcus Thuram is still recovering from a muscle injury and remains doubtful for the trip to Rome.

Meanwhile, Argentina’s head coach Lionel Scaloni may consider rotating his squad for the friendly, but he rarely benches Lautaro, whose leadership is seen as fundamental within the Albiceleste setup.

A positive precedent from last season

The situation mirrors a nearly identical moment from October 2024, when Inter Milan faced Roma under similar circumstances. 

Martinez had also just returned from a long international trip — and still scored the winning goal in a 1-0 victory at the Olimpico. That performance remains a symbolic example of his resilience and ability to deliver in crucial moments.

Decision day approaches

According to reports, Inter Milan’s schedule will include a light training session on Thursday, followed by a full practice on Friday before the team’s departure for Rome. The final call will rest with Cristian Chivu, but Lautaro’s goal is clear: to see his name among the starting eleven when the lineup is announced just hours before kick-off.

For now, Inter Milan remain cautiously optimistic — confident in their captain’s determination, yet mindful of the physical demands of another marathon week for their indispensable leader.