Inter's Hakan Calhanoglu countered Lautaro Martinez's harsh comments following a 2-0 defeat to Fluminense in the Club World Cup. Fluminense's victory marked a significant achievement, being the first non-European team to win by two or more goals against a UEFA opponent. Martinez expressed frustration regarding some teammates' commitment, implying that changes may be needed. Calhanoglu, who missed the match due to injury, defended his dedication, stating he contacted teammates post-match to offer support and emphasizing the importance of unity and respect within the team.
Yesterday we lost, and it hurt. I felt sadness, not just as a player, but as someone who truly cares. Even though I'm currently injured, I picked up the phone right after the match and called a few team-mates to lift their spirits, because that's what you do when you care about your team.
What surprised me even more were the words that came after. Words that hit hard. Words that divide, not unite. In my career, I've never looked for excuses. I've always taken responsibility. I've played even through pain, I've led, especially in difficult moments, not with words, but with actions.
I respect every opinion, even from a team-mate, even from the club president, but respect is not a one-way street. I've always shown respect on and off the pitch, and I believe that in football, as in life, true strength comes from unity.
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