Inter: Zielinski Reveals Lautaro's Encouraging Message After World Cup Play-off Exit

Inter Milan midfielder Piotr Zielinski revealed that Lautaro Martinez sent him a supportive text message following Poland's defeat in the World Cup play-off final against Sweden. Zielinski described these gestures as "small but big things that change your mindset."

Inter is currently focused on a crucial Serie A match against Como on Sunday. The Nerazzurri lead the Serie A standings with a seven-point advantage over Napoli but will be without their captain, Lautaro Martinez, who is sidelined with another calf injury.

Zielinski: Inter Will 'Do Everything to Win' Two Titles

"Seven matches remain. We will do everything to win [the title]. We are in great shape," Zielinski told Corriere dello Sport. "After the break, between training sessions and the match against Roma, it was immediately clear that something had changed. Everyone returned with the right energy. Those who suffered disappointment with their national teams have put it behind them."

Following their 5-2 victory over Roma last week, which ended a three-game winless streak, Inter players held an open discussion in the dressing room to address their recent challenges.

"These are always valuable moments. We needed to talk things through. We told ourselves that to truly win, we had to shift gears and accelerate," Zielinski explained. "Disappointments with the national team must be transformed into extra motivation to win the title. Winning has been our objective since the start of our season."

Although Lautaro Martinez is expected to be out for approximately two weeks, he remains a vital player for Inter.

"He is a leader and an example. A fundamental presence, as well as a key player," Zielinski stated. "He is a champion on the pitch and also a special person off it. Immediately after Poland's loss to Sweden, he sent me an encouraging message to lift my spirits before I returned to Milan. He did the same for the Italian players. These are the small but significant things that alter your perspective. At that point, you want to give your all for him, for the team, and for the club."

While Inter is also competing in the Coppa Italia semi-finals, they were eliminated from the Champions League knockout play-offs in February.

"I want to make it clear that we did not underestimate Bodo/Glimt," Zielinski argued. "We were all aware of their wins against Atletico Madrid and Manchester City. There was the issue of the pitch in Norway, but we certainly could have done more. In the second leg at San Siro, we were convinced we could come back. Unfortunately, this is part of football. A year ago, we came very close to winning almost everything, and in the end, we achieved nothing. Let's put the European disappointment behind us and focus on the two trophies we can and must win."

Zielinski experienced limited playing time under Simone Inzaghi during the 2025-2026 season but has become a regular starter under Cristian Chivu this term.

"I also had a great relationship with Inzaghi. He was one of the people who wanted me here. I regret not being able to contribute as much as I wanted. It was still a fantastic season," said the former Napoli star. "The Champions League final didn't go well, but reaching it was a unique experience."

"What I can say about Chivu is that he is a special person to me. When he arrived, I was still injured. He spoke to me and gave me confidence, making it clear he intended to rely on me. I worked hard to recover as quickly as possible. He knew my qualities, but he wanted to see them in every training session. I am happy that he is the coach of Inter."