The 25-year-old will pair up with either Edin Dzeko or Romelu Lukaku in attack as his team faces Manchester City in Istanbul as big underdogs.
Martinez who recently got married, is in hot form, coming into Saturday’s final, with 11 goals in his last 13 matches which helped Inter secure a top four spot in Serie A, win the Italian Cup and reach the biggest game in club football.
The top-rated player, fondly called ‘The Bull’ by his fans and admirers is keen on celebrating another major win in what has been a hugely positive campaign, with 28 goals in all competitions and three trophies to his name.
“I think they (the World Cup and Champions League) are the two most important finals you can play, the only thing that changes is the shirt you’re wearing,” Martinez told reporters.
“The sensations are the same, as is the desire to get there. It’s the result of our work throughout year. We’re at the final, and we need to be ready for the fans and the club.
“We know that Manchester City are a very tough team to take on given their individual and collective qualities. We’re ready to work hard and counteract what they can do to give ourselves an advantage.
“It’s definitely been a very positive season for me… six months ago, I played in the World Cup, and now, I’m facing Manchester City in the Champions League final. I’m delighted with how this season has gone, how I have done, and I hope we can finish it in the best way possible,” Martinez remarked.
‘Special match’ Hakan Calhanoglu is dreaming of lifting the Champions League trophy on home turf as the Turkey captain is set to start in Inter’s midfield.
The 29-year-old will become the first Turkish player to win Europe’s top club competition should Inter stun heavy favourites City.
He will be lining up against Germany midfielder Ilkay Gundogan, the descendent of Turkish immigrants who chose to represent the country of his birth.
“I’m very happy and proud to be playing the final in my home county. I’m sure my country and people are behind me, and I hope as a Turkish player I can lift the trophy,” said Calhanoglu.
“It’s a special match, playing in Istanbul is different for me. I’d like to enjoy this moment because it might not ever come along again,” Calhaghonu stated.
He added, “I know that my people are with me… I think it’s more important to them that I win than Ilkay as I’d be the only Turkey player to win the Champions League,” he noted.
AFP
