2026 World Cup: A 120-million-euro goal for Lautaro Martinez

Pepo Martinez will just have to accept it. Inter’s new goalkeeper may be Spanish and proudly wear the Spanish national team’s jersey, but the Nerazzurri’s history continues to be defined by Argentines. And the symbol of this tradition remains Lautaro Martinez, Inter’s captain and a standout player for the Albiceleste as well.

The goal he scored in the World Cup semifinal against England once again confirmed “El Toro’s” impact in the games that matter most. After making his mark in the 2023 Champions League semifinals (in the “Euroderby” against Milan) and the 2025 semifinals (against Lamine Yamal’s Barcelona), the Argentine forward wrote another chapter in his career with a goal destined to remain etched in his country’s memory. Now he’ll face Yamal once again in the final scheduled at MetLife Stadium, in a match that will decide the World Cup title.

The goal scored in Atlanta held special significance. Not only did it propel Argentina to the tournament’s final, but it also cemented Lautaro’s status as one of the heroes most beloved by Argentine fans. This achievement was also celebrated by Inter, where teammates, executives, and the coach enthusiastically followed their captain’s journey.

Cristian Chivu, who had met Lautaro while on vacation in the United States, as well as President Beppe Marotta and Sporting Director Piero Ausilio, all shared their pride in the No. 10’s performance. For the club, every success of its leader also represents further growth in terms of international prestige.

Meanwhile, the numbers continue to attest to his greatness. With 173 goals in the Nerazzurri jersey, Lautaro is already the third-highest scorer in Inter’s history. Ahead of him are only Alessandro Altobelli (209 goals) and Giuseppe Meazza (284)—milestones that seemed unattainable just a few years ago but now appear much closer.

His market value continues to rise. Following his recent successes with Inter and his performance at the World Cup, the Argentine captain’s valuation has risen even further. While experts previously valued him at around 90 million euros, the Nerazzurri are convinced he is now worth no less than 120 million. This figure reflects one key point above all: Lautaro is considered absolutely untouchable.