Lautaro Martinez has named Harry Kane as the best centre-forward in world football, placing the Bayern Munich striker ahead of Manchester City star Erling Haaland.
The Inter Milan captain was asked by Gazzetta dello Sport to choose the standout striker in the modern game. While Haaland’s goalscoring numbers have made him the obvious choice for many fans and pundits, Martinez believes Kane’s all-round game gives him the edge.
The Argentine praised Kane’s technical quality, movement and intelligence, describing him as a complete forward.
“Harry Kane,” Martinez said. “I even put him ahead of Haaland for his ball control, his link-up play, his reading of the game, and his headers. A phenomenon.”
Martinez explains Kane verdict
Martinez’s comments highlight the ongoing debate over what makes the perfect modern striker.
Haaland is widely regarded as one of the most ruthless finishers in world football, but Kane offers a broader skill set. The England captain is not only a prolific scorer, but also drops deep, links play and creates chances for team-mates.
That variety appears to be what impressed Martinez most. For the Inter forward, Kane’s ability to influence every phase of attack makes him the leading centre-forward in the game.
Inter captain enjoying career-best form
Martinez has also been enjoying one of the strongest periods of his own career.
The Inter captain has scored 17 goals in 29 Serie A appearances this season, putting him at the top of the league’s scoring charts. His consistency has helped keep Inter among the strongest attacking sides in Italy.
Asked whether he is currently playing the best football of his career, Martinez agreed.
“Certainly, because I feel very happy and confident when I play,” he said. “I move with great ease, even tactically. It wasn’t like that before.”
His development in Italy has turned him from a promising forward into one of Europe’s most reliable strikers.
Thuram partnership key for Inter
Martinez also spoke about his attacking partnership with Marcus Thuram.
The pair have built a strong understanding at Inter, giving the team a dangerous mix of movement, power and finishing. Martinez believes their different personalities also help them connect on the pitch.
“Marcus and I have slowly understood each other,” he said. “He’s a cheerful, special guy. I’m the serious one. We complement each other, even in terms of personality.”
For Martinez, the praise for Kane comes from one elite striker to another. And while Haaland may remain the most feared finisher in Europe, the Inter captain believes Kane’s complete game makes him the best centre-forward in the world.
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