Inter Milan captain Lautaro Martinez did not hide his frustration after the early and unexpected exit from the Club World Cup following a 2-0 loss to Brazilian Fluminense in the Round of 16.

The Argentine striker directed a sharp message interpreted as being aimed at his teammate Hakan Calhanoglu, who is rumored to be pushing for a move to Galatasaray.

Lautaro said after the match to Sport Mediaset: "We were not present in the first half, we lost the ball too much and conceded an early goal. Fluminense defended well and relied on counterattacks. In the second half, we gave our best, but mental fatigue and high temperatures, along with absences, affected us."

He added: "I apologize to the fans and everyone who came to support us. Now we need to focus on resting and preparing well for the next season."

He continued: "The new coach gave us a morale boost despite the exit. My message is clear: those who want to stay must commit and fight with us. And those who do not want to, can leave. We represent a great club and must always compete for trophies."

When asked if his statements were directed at Calhanoglu, he replied: "I am not addressing anyone in particular, but it is a general message. It has been a long and exhausting season, and we ended it without titles. To return to competition, we need to have enthusiasm and be a united group as we were when we won the Scudetto."

He concluded: "I saw things I did not like. As the team captain, it is my duty to speak. The message is clear: those who have the desire and ambition to stay and compete for trophies should continue. And those who do not... goodbye."