Lautaro Martinez: Inter Needed a Coach Like Cristian Kivo, And The Locker Room Is Getting a Little Less Quiet

Inter's New Confidence: Lautaro Praises Kivo

Inter Milan's Argentine striker and captain Lautaro Martinez insists he needed a coach like Cristian Kivo at Inter.

Rumors of behind-the-scenes tension circulated after Lautaro was subbed early in defeats to Milan in Serie A and Atletico Madrid in the Champions League last week.

The forward answered critics by scoring a brace in an away win at Pisa, underscoring a close bond with his coach.

Speaking to Sky Italia, Lautaro said that it is great; they talk daily and he hugs the team often, perhaps a little too much.

He added that he gets more hugs from Kivo than from his wife, but that is his way of dealing; it is satisfying because he has been in that dressing room and understands everything.

He continued that they needed a coach like him; he gives freedom and confidence, and reminds them to give their best on the pitch... he is happy with how his Inter adventure began.

He stressed that the group is the most important, and that energy renewal and chasing trophies matter most. They are not all friends, but there is still a good relationship.

With Cristian, they press harder and try to win the ball back quickly; this is something they aim to improve daily, and it has brought many benefits this season.

Nevertheless, the team has suffered four defeats across Serie A and the Champions League and is struggling in decisive matches.

He concluded that they talk about everything and work on details; performance is usually good, but they must stay mentally flexible during matches and adapt to circumstances.

Inter sits third in Serie A with 27 points and fourth in the Champions League group with 12 points.

Punchline 1: If hugs counted as assists, Kivo would lead the league in helpers.

Punchline 2: Inter's motto now: press hard, hug harder, and somehow still chase trophies.