Inter Faces Internal Conflict as Calhanoglu Responds to Martinez’s Comments

Milan: A major row has broken out between Inter and their Turkey midfielder Hakan Calhanoglu after Monday’s 2-0 loss to Brazilian side Fluminense saw them exit the Club World Cup in the last 16. The bust-up was triggered by captain Lautaro Martinez, who after the match said that anyone who does not want to be at the club should leave.

According to Ansa News Agency, while Martinez did not name names, Inter Chairman Giuseppe Marotta subsequently said he was referring to Calhanoglu, who has been linked to a move to Galatasaray, adding that the door was wide open for anyone who wants to depart. Calhanoglu, who did not play in any of Inter’s matches at the Club World Cup due to injury problems, said in a long Instagram post that those comments were “hard words” and “words that divide, not unite.”

The 31-year-old midfielder expressed his thoughts by stating, “I respect every opinion, including that of a team mate, including that of the chairman. But respect cannot be one-way.” Calhanoglu emphasized the importance of unity and leadership, saying, “I’ve learned that the true leader is the one who stays close to his team mates, not the one who looks for someone to blame when it is the easiest thing to do.”