Inter midfielder Valentin Carboni shared that he replayed Lionel Messi`s words of praise while recovering from a knee injury, describing the experience as `incredible`.
The 20-year-old Carboni rejoined Inter in January after sustaining a knee ligament injury during his loan period at Marseille, managed by Roberto De Zerbi.
He spent the latter half of the season rehabilitating and has now been integrated into the Inter squad for the Club World Cup.
The young Argentine talent was crucial in Inter`s qualification for the Round of 16, netting a late goal in the 2-1 victory over Urawa Reds.
Carboni told Gazzetta, “Honestly, I didn`t expect this at all. The injury was a massive setback. My career was moving so fast before it, but I believe everything happens for a reason in life.”
Carboni had recorded two goals and four assists in 32 appearances for Monza in the 2023-24 season prior to his challenging loan at Marseille.
Carboni Feels `Stronger` After Knee Surgery
He commented, “Even though I endured significant pain, I can almost find a positive aspect in this ACL surgery. It helped me mature and enhance areas where I needed to improve.”
“I`ve become a more complete individual and footballer. I feel physically and mentally stronger, and more driven than before,” he added.
“Technically, I am an attacking midfielder, but it`s currently difficult to find teams that utilize a player just behind the forwards. So, players like me frequently transition to a mezzala (box-to-box) position. Perhaps in the future, I`ll see myself playing that role regularly.”
Carboni has been reunited with his fellow Argentine, Lautaro Martinez, at Inter.
The Inter prospect stated, “He is a captain and a role model, both in what he says and what he does. He was delighted about my goal, just as he was supportive at Appiano Gentile while I was doing my rehabilitation.”
“He understands what I experienced and how much it means for me to be here,” Carboni remarked.Carboni: `Messi`s Compliments Were Incredible`
Even the legendary Lionel Messi recognized Carboni`s potential in 2024, remarking that the young Inter player had a promising future.
Carboni confessed, “`It was incredible, but at the time I didn`t fully grasp it because everything was unfolding so rapidly.`”
“`However, when you face difficulties, you reflect on the positive moments. During my recovery, I would listen to those compliments repeatedly. I remember when he called me before the Copa America. One day, I aspire to wear the national team jersey again.`”
The 20-year-old made his senior international debut for Argentina in 2024 and has since earned three caps. Before representing the Albiceleste, he had scored four goals in 11 appearances for Italy at the U17 level.
