The Italian media is convinced that Lautaro Martinez, the Inter Milan forward, has surpassed Robert Lewandowski in the race for the prestigious Golden Ball award. While Lewandowski was the favorite to win the award in 2020, the pandemic forced the cancellation of the ceremony. In 2021, he had a good chance of winning, but Lionel Messi took home the trophy, sparking controversy. This season, Lewandowski is still a strong contender, but Martinez has emerged as a formidable rival.
At 36, Lewandowski remains one of the most prolific goal-scorers in Europe, and his impressive performances have led FC Barcelona to victory in the Spanish Super Cup. However, the Italian media believes that Martinez has overtaken him in the race for the Golden Ball. Martinez’s incredible form has been instrumental in Inter Milan’s success, including their quarterfinal victory over Bayern Munich in the Champions League.
The Argentine forward has proven his doubters wrong, silencing critics who claimed he couldn’t score in big games. His two goals against Bayern Munich have made him the talk of the town, with Italian journalists praising his determination and clutch performances. „Lautaro has become the absolute protagonist, showing that he is the driving force behind Inter Milan,” writes fcinter1908.it.
However, Martinez faces a significant hurdle in his quest for the Golden Ball – Barcelona’s attacking trio of Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, and Lewandowski. „In the fight for the Golden Ball, Barcelona stands in his way. In the semifinal, Inter will face an offensive attack led by Yamal, Raphinha, and Lewandowski,” notes internews24.com.
Italian journalists have even gone as far as to claim that Martinez is superior to Lewandowski in several aspects. „La Gazzetta dello Sport” wrote that Martinez is the better player, and his performances have made him the favorite to win the Golden Ball.
Martinez’s impressive statistics in the Champions League are hard to ignore. He scores a goal every 81 minutes, making him the most prolific goal-scorer among the four semifinalists. His pace and determination have made him a nightmare for opposing defenders, and his ability to score crucial goals has earned him the nickname „Toro.”
While Lewandowski’s impressive form cannot be discounted, Martinez’s emergence as a top contender for the Golden Ball is undeniable. The Argentine forward’s destiny will be decided on May 6, when Inter Milan faces Barcelona in the Champions League semifinal.
Will Martinez lead Inter Milan to victory and clinch the Golden Ball? Only time will tell. But one thing is certain – he has become a force to be reckoned with in European football.
Key Statistics:
* Lautaro Martinez scores a goal every 81 minutes in the Champions League.
* Martinez has scored crucial goals in big games, including the quarterfinal victory over Bayern Munich.
* Inter Milan has reached the Champions League semifinal for the first time in 10 years, thanks largely to Martinez’s performances.
References:
* fcinter1908.it
* internews24.com
* La Gazzetta dello Sport
* UEFA Champions League official website
More here:
Lautaro Martinez: The Argentine Sensation Overtaking Lewandowski in the Race for the Golden Ball
