Altobelli Looks Back on Inter Days and Gives Advice to Lautaro

Alessandro Altobelli, the legendary Inter Milan striker, recently shared insights from his playing career and offered advice to current Inter star Lautaro Martinez.

Reflecting on his early days, Altobelli recalled watching the “Grande Inter” team of the 1960s on a TV outside a local cinema in his hometown. He started playing organized football at 13 for a local team called Spes, which relied on self-funding from players.

Altobelli’s big break came when a scout offered him and a teammate 50,000 lire each to join Latina. This marked the beginning of his professional career, though it initially created conflict with his job as a butcher.

When asked about his time at Inter, Altobelli praised Eugenio Bersellini as the coach who developed him best, both technically and mentally. However, he expressed disappointment about his departure from Inter, saying he had envisioned becoming a club executive before feeling pushed out.

Regarding the current Inter squad, Altobelli highlighted Lautaro Martinez as one of Europe’s top strikers. He advised Lautaro to stay calmer in the penalty area to improve his finishing, drawing from his own experience of feeling untouchable in front of goal.

Altobelli also praised manager Simone Inzaghi, admitting he initially doubted Inzaghi’s readiness for the pressure at Inter but has been impressed by his ability to get the best out of all players.

Looking ahead to the upcoming match against Juventus, Altobelli believes Inter is stronger at the moment but cautioned that games in Turin are never straightforward. He tipped Thuram or Lautaro as potential match-winners for Inter, while highlighting Juventus’ strength on the wings.