Calhanoglu’s Bold Ambition: “I Crave the Champions League and the Ballon d’Or with Inter!”

Hakan Calhanoglu is aiming for the stars. The Inter midfielder made this crystal clear during an interview with Sport Mediaset following Turkey’s emphatic 3-0 victory over Hungary, a match in which he notched a goal himself. The 1994-born player expressed his ambitions of clinching the Serie A, Coppa Italia, and the coveted Champions League trophy, all while harbouring dreams of personal glory with the prestigious Ballon d'Or. "Inter, I want the Champions League and the Ballon d'Or," Calhanoglu declared. "We’re hopeful of sweeping all the trophies. We strive to represent Inter in the best possible manner, and we fully understand the massive responsibility that entails. I’ve already tasted success in Italy; my primary target now is to win the Champions League. My dream, especially after our near-miss in the final two years ago, is to return and claim victory. Raising the Scudetto again is just as vital." When asked about being a role model for young Asllani, he responded warmly, "I appreciate that. We’re always there, providing guidance to our younger teammates. Kri, in particular, possesses enormous talent and is capable of succeeding at Inter. It's a challenging journey for him, but we're here to support him as he deserves more. Whenever he’s had the opportunity, he’s certainly made an impact." Calhanoglu also touched on his connection with the Inter faithful, which was strong enough to lead him to turning down a significant offer from Bayern Munich last summer—particularly poignant as Inter are set to face them in the Champions League quarter-finals. "The fans have elevated me not just as a player but as a person; I’ve matured considerably. I will always be grateful for what they do—not just for me, but for the whole team; it’s beyond words. I’m currently living a fantastic chapter of my life, and our supporters are phenomenal. They provide us with immense strength at San Siro, and we're determined to deliver something meaningful for them. Was it for them that I rejected Bayern? Absolutely!" - Resource: "https://www.tuttosport.com/news/calcio/serie-a/inter/2025/03/24-139427527/calhanoglu_pigliatutto_inter_voglio_champions_league_e_pallone_d_oro_