Icardi: what are the reasons that led to his loss of the captain's armband

Mauro Icardi, an Argentine professional footballer, has undoubtedly made headlines over the years, both for his remarkable goal-scoring ability and his off-field controversies. One of the most significant events in his tumultuous career was his loss of the captain’s armband at Inter Milan in February 2019. But what were the reasons that led to this dramatic and consequential decision?

One of the primary factors behind Icardi’s loss of the captaincy was the public dispute between the player, his wife and agent, Wanda Nara, and the Inter Milan hierarchy. Negotiations for a contract extension had been ongoing for months, with both parties struggling to reach an agreement. This tension began affecting Icardi’s performances on the pitch, and his commitment to the club was called into question.

As the negotiations intensified, Nara took matters into her own hands by publicly criticizing the Inter Milan management, questioning their respect for her husband’s contribution to the club. Such behavior, which could be seen as disrespectful and divisive, only worsened the situation and strained the relationship between Icardi, the team, and the fans.

Another reason for the loss of the captaincy was Icardi’s absence from several crucial matches due to injuries. A captain is expected to be a reliable and influential figure both on and off the pitch. Icardi’s repeated injuries raised concerns about his physical durability and his ability to lead the team effectively. A captain who cannot be relied upon to consistently feature in important fixtures undermines the team’s cohesion and stability.

However, the decisive blow to Icardi’s captaincy came in the aftermath of a Champions League clash against Rapid Vienna. Inter Milan coach Luciano Spalletti expressed his dissatisfaction with Icardi’s attitude and commitment during the match. The captain appeared disinterested and detached, failing to inspire his teammates. This led to Spalletti’s decision to strip Icardi of the armband and replace him with Samir Handanović.

The loss of the captaincy was not only a result of Icardi’s behavior, but it also had a profound impact on his playing time and involvement with the squad. After the incident, Icardi found himself often on the bench or even excluded from the matchday squad. This exclusion further fueled speculations about the deteriorating relationship between the player and the club.

It is worth noting that Inter Milan’s decision to take away Icardi’s captaincy was not solely based on his off-field issues. The club management had been increasingly frustrated by his inconsistent performances on the pitch. Despite his incredible goal-scoring record, Icardi often struggled to carry his team during crucial moments, leaving them vulnerable in tight matches. This lack of impact during crucial games also influenced the decision to remove Icardi as the captain.

In conclusion, Mauro Icardi’s loss of the captain’s armband at Inter Milan was not a sudden or unjustified decision. It stemmed from a combination of factors such as his agent’s public disputes, injuries, his perceived detachment during matches, and his inconsistent on-field performances. The decision to replace him as captain not only impacted Icardi’s status but also strained his relationship with the team and further cast doubts on his long-term future at the club. Only time will tell if he can regain the trust and respect of Inter Milan and secure his place as a leader both on and off the pitch.