In a stunning revelation that could send shockwaves through the summer transfer market, Inter Milan captain Lautaro Martinez has openly admitted his long-standing admiration for Barcelona, describing the Catalan giants as "the club I always liked."
The Argentine World Cup winner made the surprising comments ahead of Inter's crucial Champions League quarter-final first leg against the Spanish champions, adding an intriguing subplot to the European showdown.
Martinez's Barcelona Dream Revealed
Speaking candidly to reporters, Martinez confessed: "Barcelona are the club I always liked, but I don't know if there were any offers. I don't know anything, I haven't spoken to anyone."
Despite his current status as Inter's captain and talisman, the 26-year-old striker acknowledged the special nature of facing his childhood favourites, stating: "It will be special to play against Barcelona, but I am focused on Inter."
Manchester City's Dynamic Duo Ready for Battle
Meanwhile, at the Etihad Stadium, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola faces his own selection headache as two of his brightest stars approach the clash against Real Madrid in contrasting form.
Erling Haaland, City's Norwegian goal machine, has been uncharacteristically quiet in recent weeks, failing to find the net in his last three appearances across all competitions. The 23-year-old's dip in form comes at a crucial juncture in City's quest for back-to-back Champions League titles.
In contrast, Phil Foden has been enjoying arguably the finest season of his career. The England international has been in scintillating form, netting 14 Premier League goals and creating numerous opportunities for his teammates.
Guardiola's Selection Conundrum
Guardiola now faces the difficult decision of whether to stick with his established stars or make tactical adjustments for the crucial European tie. The Spanish manager acknowledged the challenge, saying: "We need our big players at their best if we're to overcome a team of Real Madrid's quality."
The contrasting fortunes of Haaland and Foden present both a problem and an opportunity for City as they prepare to host the Spanish giants at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday night.
Champions League Quarter-Finals Take Centre Stage
This week's Champions League action promises high drama, with two fascinating quarter-final matchups capturing the attention of football fans worldwide. The Barcelona-Inter clash gains additional intrigue thanks to Martinez's revelations, while City's quest for European glory faces its sternest test against Carlo Ancelotti's Real Madrid.
As the competition reaches its business end, the performances of these star players could well determine which clubs advance to the semi-finals and which see their European dreams ended prematurely.
