Lautaro Martínez backs Julián Álvarez ahead of Inter's Madrid clash

Lautaro Martínez told reporters he has spoken to fellow Argentine Julián Álvarez and sent him a message of support ahead of Inter Milán's opening Champions League meeting with Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu on Tuesday at 16:00 Argentina time.

Press conference highlights

Real Madrid’s side was represented at the pre‑match press conference by José Mourinho and Kylian Mbappé, who spoke on behalf of the Merengue. Their comments were followed by those of Inter’s representatives, Cristian Chivu and Lautaro Martínez, who addressed the nerazzurro crowd.

Martínez, often called the Toro, explained his view of the upcoming clash and then turned to the situation of his compatriot at Atlético de Madrid. “Hablé con él, le mandé un mensaje y le mostré mi apoyo,” he said.

He added that the final decision on Álvarez’s future rests with his club, referring to the Argentine as the Araña. “La decisión es de su club,” Martínez said, before wishing him a swift recovery and urging him to continue proving why he is considered one of the world’s best players.

The match marks the inaugural fixture of this season’s Champions League, with Inter Milán travelling to the Santiago Bernabéu to face Real Madrid. Both clubs are keen to start the campaign strongly.

Media outlets from ES, DE and SU reported on the event, while the LA and DEL agencies also covered the story. The nickname TORO continues to be associated with Inter, and Le journalists highlighted the significance of the encounter.