Arriving on tiptoe at Inter Milan last summer, Marcus Thuram only needed a few months to get everyone to agree. His express adaptation, his understanding with Lautaro Martinez and his impressive statistics make him one of the attractions of the season in Italy. But a recent tribute, coming from a voice that carries weight in transalpine football, has just placed it in a completely different dimension, launching an unexpected debate.
Stronger than Captain Lautaro?
The tribute does not come from just anyone. It was Luca Toni, immense scorer, 2006 world champion with Italy, who spoke. And his words, spoken on Aura Sportsare strong: “ For me, the best is Marcus Thuram”. A shocking statement, especially since it places the Frenchman ahead of his own teammate and captain, Lautaro Martinez.
“I like Lautaro’s rage and charisma, he’s a real leader. But as an individual player, I prefer Thuram because he has completed his development.”
For a former glory like Toni, the observation is clear: the former Guingampais has becomeu “powerful in the area, he scores with his head and moves like a real center forward”. A huge compliment from a specialist in the position. These praises will undoubtedly have the effect of a balm to the heart for Thuram, currently away from the field and from the French team due to a physical problem.
A debate that divides Italy
But is Thuram, objectively, the best striker in the championship? The debate has begun, and it is far from unanimous. If the Frenchman’s progress is spectacular, it is difficult to ignore the impact of Lautaro Martinez, current top scorer in Serie A and soul of the Nerazzurri. Many observers will believe that the Argentinian remains, through his consistency and his leadership, a cut above.
Regardless, the mere fact that the question arises is already a resounding victory for Marcus Thuram. In a few months, he went from being a very good player to becoming a European reference. Luca Toni’s verdict is worth a knighthood. He confirms that his choice to join Inter to take a step forward was the right one. The debate on his place in the hierarchy is only beginning, and this is the best proof of his new stature.
