Former Inter Milan striker Diego Milito admits his compatriot, Lautaro Martinez, could’ve won the famous Ballon d’Or this year.
During a long chatter with TyC Sports via FCInterNews, Milito addressed several exciting topics, including the iconic UEFA Champions League final in 2010.
Milito soaked up the limelight as Inter’s hero, notching a game-winning brace against Bayern Munich in the historic final.
His goals helped Jose Mourinho lead the Nerazzurri to an unprecedented treble.
“A dream match, both personally and for the team,” Milito recalled.
“We were really convinced we could win it; we had experienced players and a strong squad.
“The victory over Barcelona gave us a lot of confidence. It was a tremendous semifinal, we had already faced Barcelona in the group stage.
“The semifinal games were spectacular. I still remember the run at Camp Nou.”
Meanwhile, Milito emphasizes Mourinho’s substantial role in Inter’s success during their time at Giuseppe Meazza.
“He has one face on the outside, but inside, he’s completely different,” he continued.
“Outside, he appears as the ‘villain’ to protect the team and reduce the pressure, but inside, he’s a very pleasant person.
“Personally, he was truly extraordinary with me. When I signed with Inter, he called me to welcome me, and I told him I wanted the number 22 jersey.
“I knew it was occupied by Paolo Orlandoni at the time. I said the number wasn’t a big deal, but José told me not to worry.
“Later, when I arrived at Inter, Paolo told me that during a training session, Mou said to him: ‘Paolo, I need to ask you a favor, and you have to say yes. You need to give up the 22.’
“In the end, I got the 22.”
Ex Inter Milan Star Striker Diego Milito Offers His Verdict on Lautaro Martinez Ballon d’Or Ranking
Despite winning the Scudetto and Copa America, Lautaro Martinez had to settle for a seventh place in the Ballon d’Or race.
However, Milito believes his countryman could’ve just as easily won the prize.
“I talk to him a lot, we have a great relationship. I’ve known Lauti since he was very young,” El Principe stated.
“He was supposed to debut when I was still playing.
“In fact, he made his debut when I was subbed off, and there’s a symbolic photo of that moment.
“The truth is, he’s an extraordinary guy, and it makes me happy to see him continue to surpass me because he’s doing amazing things.
“The Ballon d’Or? I was surprised – he had an exceptional year and could have easily won it.”
