In today’s Gazzetta della Sport, there is a big interview with Inter’s young midfield-star Mateo Kovacic of Croatia. We at SempreInter.com gives you the full translated interview!
Mateo, the only thing you’re missing is a goal?
“Ah, you provoke me right away? (laughing) Well, of course I’d like to score my first goal for Inter right now, but if the team wins without me scoring, it’s just as good.”
In Croatia, you scored seven goals for Zagreb, which one was the best one?
“A shot from a very tight angle that hit the far post and bounced into the net”
How do you feel about the new role that Mazzarri have given you on the midfield?
“I love playing everywhere on the midfield, but this one in particular. It gives me the chance to be closer to the goal and control the game in the middle of the pitch.”
Mazzarri considers you to be his new Hamsik in Inter?
“We’re a bit different. Hamsik works a lot around in attack without the ball, meanwhile I’m more of a playmaker. But it’s pretty much the same position. He’s played many years in Serie A and I’m studying his way of playing.”
Who else are you studying?
“Luca Modric, Iniesta and David Silva. I watch how they move and how they deliver the ball to their teammates. ”
Your idol and countryman Modric, what advice did he give you?
“To live life as a professional. It’s not just on the pitch, you have to be well-behaved in life aswell.”
Many experts believe that Inter might reach the Champions League this year, what are your predictions?
“We’ll see”
Are you all healed up for tomorrow against Genoa?
“Not quite, but I did 30 minutes against Cittadella and it felt good. I’m ready to give it my all, but Mazzarri decides it.”
How has your life changed since coming to Milan?
“A lot, I came to Milan all alone, like a child that was forced to grow up right away and did what’s necessary to become an adult. It’s another type of football aswell where Mazzarri calls every single shot. He’s got faith in us and I hope he can perform just as good with us as he did in Napoli. ”
What do you do on your spare time?
“I sleep a lot, maybe a bit of Playstation. But I also read a lot as well, right now I’m finishing the book about Zlatan Ibrahimovic. I have read so many books about Inter’s history to learn it all, and mainly about the numbers 10’s of the past which is some great players. It makes me proud to wear this jersey.”
You’e also taking your driver’s license?
“Yes, in a few days, then I won’t have to hitchhike with my teammates anymore.”