Calhanoglu: ‘Inter must not lose motivation, I never thought about leaving’ | OneFootball

Hakan Calhanoglu insists he never considered leaving Inter this summer but argues that the Nerazzurri must not lose motivation to win the Serie A title again.

The Turkey international spoke to Sky Sport Italia four days before Inter’s 2024-25 Serie A debut against Genoa at Marassi.

Calhanoglu had been linked with a move to Bayern Munich during the Euros, but the ex-Milan midfielder revealed that he didn’t want to leave after days of speculation.

“Those who know me know what type of person I am. I don’t talk much, I am pretty quiet,” the Turkish midfielder told Sky Sport Italia.

“I like to work hard and improve. I’ve had incredible fans and teammates over the last three years. I’ve improved so much thanks to them. I’ve never thought about leaving, I was certain I would stay at Inter. There were rumours, but I never said anything. I only focused on my job. When I spoke, everyone relaxed.”

The Nerazzurri will be looking to defend their champions status this season.

“Winning the Scudetto was great, but all the teams will be even more motivated to beat us,” the experienced midfielder insisted.

Calhanoglu: ‘Inter must not lose motivation, I never thought about leaving’

“It will be even more important to confirm ourselves. We are working. It’s very hot, so it’s tiring, but we are ready for Genoa. I always believe in what I do. Without the staff members and my teammates, I can’t improve. We understand each other, so it’s easier to play. It’s essential to have the same determination and desire to win again.

“All the teams have brought many reinforcements. Our secret [last season] was our determination and desire to win,” he continued.

“You can see that other clubs want to beat us, but we must not give up or lose motivation. We must do even more. It’s hard to win again, but I believe in us. We have the right mentality and strong players.”

What’s his take on new Inter signing Mehdi Taremi?

“He is a footballer who plays for the team. He runs and works hard,” said Calha.

“We need somebody like him in our system. He is reliable in front of the goal. He is very calm and positive.”

Does Lautaro Martinez deserve to win the Ballon d’Or?

“I hope so. We are all backing him,” replied Calhanoglu.

“He deserved the contract extension. He is our captain, he knows how to handle his teammates, and he always scores. I am really happy, and I hope he wins it. I’ll be happy if we win everything at the end of the season.”