Inter’s Martinez dreaming of World Cup and Champions League double

ISTANBUL: Lautaro Martinez said Friday that he is hoping to make it a perfect season by winning the Champions League with Inter Milan six months after World Cup glory with Argentina. The 25-year-old will pair up with either Edin Dzeko or Romelu Lukaku in attack as his team face Manchester City in Istanbul as big underdogs. Martinez, who was also recently married, is in hot form coming into Saturday’s final, with 11 goals in his last 13 matches helping Inter secure a top four spot in Serie A, win the Italian Cup and reach the biggest game in club football.

And the man they call ‘The Bull’ is keen to celebrate another major win in what has been a hugely positive campaign, with 28 goals in all competitions and three trophies to his name. “I think they (the World Cup and Champions League) are the two most important finals you can play, the only thing that changes is the shirt you’re wearing,” Martinez told reporters. “The sensations are the same, as is the desire to get there.

It’s the result of our work throughout year. We’re at the final and we need to be ready for the fans and the club. “We know that Manchester City are a very tough team to take on given their individual and collective qualities.

We’re ready to work hard and counteract what they can do to give ourselves an advantage. “It’s definitely been a very positive season for me.... six months ago I played in the World Cup and now I’m facing Manchester City in the Champion League final.