Beppe Marotta has spoken ahead of Inter Milan’s Serie A clash at Lecce, addressing the fallout from the Champions League defeat in Norway, the injury to Lautaro Martinez, and what lies ahead in a crucial four-day spell for the Nerazzurri.
Speaking to DAZN at the Via del Mare, the Inter president was characteristically measured when asked about the controversial artificial pitch in Bodo and its role in Lautaro’s injury.
While acknowledging the conditions were far from ideal, Marotta was clear that Inter would not be using it as an excuse.
“It wasn’t a beautiful surface, but the logic of the competition means certain teams play on these pitches,” he said, via FCInterNews.
“The only regret is Lautaro’s injury but the difficulty of playing there is certainly not an excuse.”
Lecce Vs Inter Milan – Marotta Respects Lecce, Lautaro Will Recover Ahead Of Schedule
BERGAMO, ITALY – DECEMBER 28: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale in action during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and FC Internazionale at New Balance Arena on December 28, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
On the challenge ahead, Marotta struck a tone of focused determination rather than complacency, wary of both Lecce’s recent form and the looming Champions League second leg.
“We are not relaxed, out of respect for both opponents,” he said.
“Lecce are in form, we have players missing, but those who play will give everything. There must be strong determination and motivation.”
The most encouraging words came on the subject of Lautaro himself.
With Marotta expressing genuine optimism about the captain’s recovery timeline.
“He was on the pitch yesterday and today, showing his closeness and motivation to the squad,” Marotta said.
“He will suffer, that’s normal. We need to be cautious because the muscular problem is serious. But I am sure that being the tenacious person he is, Lautaro will recover ahead of schedule.”