Derby Dreams on Hold: Lautaro Martinez Diagnosed with Left Calf Strain Ahead of Milan Clash
20 February 2026
Lautaro Martinez sidelined by a left calf strain ahead of the derby
Inter Milan's star striker Lautaro Martinez has suffered a muscular injury that could keep him out for about a month, potentially ruling him out of the Derby della Madonnina against AC Milan.
The Argentine international picked up a left calf strain during the Champions League match against Bodø/Glimt and was substituted at halftime.
Inter released an official statement after medical checks, confirming the left calf muscle strain and saying the condition will be reassessed next week.
Recovery and derby implications
According to Sky Italia and Corriere dello Sport, Martinez's recovery is expected to take 3 to 4 weeks, which would sideline him for the Milan derby scheduled for March 8.
La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Inter hopes to have him back in time for the derby but that he will miss the next four matches: Lecce, Genoa, Bodø/Glimt in the Champions League, and Como in the Coppa Italia.
Martinez has scored 18 goals and provided 4 assists in 35 appearances across all competitions this season.
Inter will explore options to fill the gap as they chase both Serie A and European campaigns.
Punchline 1: If injuries came with a transfer fee, this one would be a high-cost loan from the pain department.
Punchline 2: Derby day without Lautaro? It’ll still be a blockbuster—football loves a good cliffhanger, especially when the ice packs are involved.
