Calhanoglu Strikes Back at Lautaro Criticism, Thuram’s Like Sparks Controversy

“After the injury I suffered in the Champions League final, we decided I would still travel to the United States,” Calhanoglu wrote. “Being there, even without playing, was important to me. I wanted to stay close to the group and offer my support. Unfortunately, during a training session in the U.S., I picked up another injury in a different area. The diagnosis was clear: a muscle tear. That’s why I couldn’t play. There’s nothing more to it. No hidden story.”

Calhanoglu emphasized that despite not being on the pitch, he remained fully engaged with the squad. “Yesterday we lost. It hurts. I experienced it with sadness, not only as a footballer but as someone who genuinely cares about this team,” he added. “Right after the final whistle, despite my injury, I called some teammates to show my support. Because when you care, that’s what you do.”

However, it was Lautaro’s remarks after the elimination that struck him the most. “What affected me more were the words that came afterward. Harsh words. Words that divide instead of unite,” Calhanoglu continued. “The history books will remember those who stood tall, not those who raised their voices.”

His post seemed to be a clear reference to Lautaro’s statement, in which the captain urged any players lacking full commitment to leave. While Lautaro insisted he wasn’t targeting anyone specifically, speculation quickly arose that Calhanoglu was among those he alluded to.

Thuram Has Chosen the Turk

Adding to the intrigue, Marcus Thuram liked Calhanoglu’s post, an action that some fans interpreted as a show of solidarity with the Turkish midfielder. Thuram himself has not commented publicly.

Inter President Giuseppe Marotta also weighed in, telling reporters that Lautaro’s words were those of a captain and that the club shared the desire for a united, ambitious group. “I imagine he was referring to Calhanoglu, and we will talk to him to resolve things in the best way,” Marotta said.

As Inter now turn the page on a season that ended without trophies, questions remain about how this public exchange will impact the team’s chemistry heading into pre-season. For Calhanoglu, the message was clear: “I have never said I’m not happy here, nor have I ever betrayed this shirt. The future? We will see.”