'Showed him my full support': Lautaro Martinez reveals private message to Julian Alvarez

Lautaro Martinez has revealed that he contacted Julian Alvarez personally to offer his support as the Atletico Madrid striker goes through a difficult period. The Inter Milan captain was asked about his Argentina teammate during his pre-match press conference ahead of the Champions League meeting with Real Madrid. Lautaro explained that his relationship with Alvarez goes beyond their shared position and national team, describing the Atletico forward as a friend. 'I spoke with him, sent him a message, and showed him my full support. Beyond sharing a team and position, he's a friend, and the time he's going through isn't easy,' Lautaro said. 'The decision is up to his club, to the president of his club... I wish him all the best and hope he gets well soon and continues to show what he's shown so far. He's one of the best in the world,' he added. Lautaro also spoke about Lionel Messi's recent retirement from the Argentina national team. 'We knew the news was coming eventually. It's tough because of everything Leo means to the world of football, the national team, our country... I had the chance to talk to him and thank him for how he led us to victory. He never gave up despite going through difficult times.' Get all the latest La Liga & Spain news in our brand new app