Inter Milan’s U19 coach Cristian Chivu has called an emergency squad meeting following a reported rift between star players Lautaro Martínez and Hakan Çalhanoğlu that nearly escalated during training. The tension reportedly erupted after a heated exchange over tactical decisions and leadership on the pitch, reflecting deeper divisions within the squad.
The conflict came to a head after Inter’s disappointing 2-0 defeat to Fluminense in the FIFA Club World Cup Round of 16, which intensified frustrations. Lautaro Martínez, the club captain, publicly urged players who were not fully committed to leave, a statement widely interpreted as a direct message to Çalhanoğlu, who has been linked with a summer move to Galatasaray. Çalhanoğlu responded on social media, denying disloyalty and criticizing Martínez’s approach as divisive.
Coach Chivu, known for his disciplined and pragmatic leadership, convened the squad behind closed doors to address the growing discord. The meeting included not only the players involved but also senior squad members who emphasized the importance of unity and team spirit ahead of a crucial season. Çalhanoğlu was notably absent, having returned to Europe with other injured players, adding another layer of complexity to the situation
