Inter Milan’s backup goalkeeper Josep Martínez has been involved in a tragic road accident that claimed the life of an 81-year-old man on Tuesday morning, according to reports from Italy.
🔹 Accident Near Inter Training Ground
The 27-year-old Spaniard was reportedly driving to Inter’s training facility in Appiano Gentile around 10 a.m. when the collision occurred in the nearby town of Fenegro, a small commune just outside Como.
Emergency services — including ambulances, a helicopter, and the Carabinieri (Italian police) — arrived promptly at the scene, but despite their efforts, the elderly man died instantly from his injuries.
🔹 Possible Medical Emergency Behind the Wheelchair Mishap
Preliminary investigations suggest that the victim, who was using a motorized wheelchair, may have suffered a sudden medical episode, causing him to veer unexpectedly into the path of Martínez’s vehicle.
Authorities have opened an official inquiry, but initial indications point toward a tragic accident rather than driver negligence. Martínez is said to be cooperating fully with the police investigation.
🔹 Martínez “Devastated but Unharmed”
Sources close to the player have confirmed that Martínez was physically uninjured but is deeply traumatized by the incident. He has reportedly received psychological support from both the club and his family in the aftermath of the tragedy.
🔹 Inter Cancels Pre-Match Press Conference
In light of the events, Inter head coach Christian Chivu canceled his scheduled press conference ahead of the club’s upcoming Serie A clash with Fiorentina.
The Nerazzurri have not yet released an official statement, but internal sources say the club has expressed sympathy to the victim’s family and will provide full support to Martínez during the investigation.
🔹 A Career Marked by Reliability
Since joining Inter Milan last season, Martínez has made 12 appearances across all competitions, keeping seven clean sheets. A former goalkeeper for Genoa, RB Leipzig, and Las Palmas, he has also earned one senior cap for the Spanish national team.
Earlier this year, Martínez stepped up for Inter when Yann Sommer suffered a fractured thumb, performing admirably in his absence. This season, he has featured in two of the club’s eight Serie A matches, as Chivu continues to rotate his goalkeeping options.
🔹 A Club in Mourning
What was meant to be a routine training morning has turned into a day of sorrow for Inter Milan. While investigations continue, the football community has united in expressing condolences to the victim’s family — and empathy for a player who will carry the weight of this tragedy for a long time to come.