Inzaghi defends Lautaro: ‘Never heard him say a bad word’

Inter coach Simone Inzaghi believes that speculation over whether captain Lautaro Martínez should have been banned for uttering a blasphemous expression is just part of the ‘extra noise’ that constantly surrounds the Nerazzurri.

The striker came under scrutiny from the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) due to footage showing his fury at the Allianz Stadium after the final whistle of his side’s 1-0 defeat to Juventus. Although prosecutors appear to have found evidence of him swearing, he is likely to avoid a potential ban through a plea bargain.

While Inzaghi acknowledged that ‘things can happen in tense moments’, he insisted that Inter’s captain has ‘strong values’, adding that he has ‘never heard anything from him’.

Inzaghi: Lautaro ‘never’ said a bad word, always extra noise around Inter

“There’s always extra noise when it comes to Inter,” Inzaghi told reporters during a pre-match press conference ahead of their big match at Napoli.

“I got upset about it because I wanted to defend my players and the club. I didn’t like the external narratives.

“As for Lautaro, I’ve worked with him for four years and have never heard him say a bad word. He cares a lot and has strong values. Things can happen in tense moments, but I’ve never heard anything from him.

“Let’s put this behind us. Despite all the talk about an issue that seemed settled, he is focused and working well. He listens and takes everything in.”

Lautaro Martínez scored the winner in his side’s recent Serie A victory over Genoa and is expected to start at the Stadio Diego Maradona as he looks to continue his strong start to 2025, having netted nine goals in all competitions since the turn of the year.