Guarin: “I’ve had to fight to get what I have”

“We have a good team, but we can’t deny that other clubs like Napoli and Juventus have reinforced a lot, Fiorentina and Milan as well.” This is what Fredy Guarin said in an interview with Colombian Revista Bocas. The Inter midfielder touches on many different topics, from racism in the stadiums in Italy to his desire to score. First, however, a question about Erick Thohir: “As a player you have to do your best for your team. The other discussions are handled by the coach and the management. If we need reinforcements? If it were to be strong players who can help us they are welcome, but let’s talk about something else.”

Guarin on his relationship with the goal: “Every player dreams of scoring many goals. It doesn’t matter what position you play, the goals are the essence of this sport. I don’t score often, but when my daughter Danna was born, I dedicated one to her, then came the others. Particularly important goals, in the end Porto won the title during an unforgettable year. Now I hope to continue on the road with this Inter and the national team.”

Among the Colombian’s goals, there is the one against Maritimo in 2011, which was awarded as the finest goal in Europe: “Yes, it was a great pleasure and an important step in my career. I couldn’t believe it either. It was emotional, I shot and saw the ball’s path was bent in an impressive way. It’s rare to see that kind of goals. I was happy because I knew that many people celebrated the goal. I still remember my teammates’ smiles when they came to celebrate with me. It ‘s the kind of goal that opens many doors. The one to Inter? There were several offers, among them were also Juve, but I chose to come here. At the time it seemed best from both a financial and competitive standpoint. My main goal is to ensure the future of my family. The love of the shirt came afterwards and at Inter I’ve been treated well and they gave me confidence. Here they pay attention to all the details and that’s how sympathy for a team is born.”

On racism in Italian stadiums: “It ‘s very difficult to accept these insults, we are humans and we have our character. It doesn’t affect me much because I know that it comes from stupid people. I have fought for what I have and I will not lower my head, but on the pitch, I represent Inter and I have to behave as an Inter player. Until now, no one has insulted me, but I’ve seen teammates being exposed to such episodes. People who offend don’t realize that players who have been exposed have children and families that are affected. But the absurdity is that those who insult people based on their skin color also have black players in their team! Why insult us? We bring entertainment to European football. The best answer to meet their ignorance is indifference. I will never leave the pitch because I’m professional, but I would understand if a teammate reacted and I would give them my support.”

What thoughts are in the head of a player when he knows he won’t play from start? “In my case, I felt disappointment and bitterness, but I have never doubted my quality and have always been supported by my family and the strength of my past and my childhood which was filled with dreams. Knowing that my son will be happy if I score goals has always given me a little extra energy to keep fighting. My secret is to maintain a positive attitude without forgetting the bad, even when things go well. You have to remember where you’ve been to know where you are now.”

On the differences between Inter and the national team: “I always give everything. I know that my performances with the team is what gives me the opportunity to play for Selección. But the feeling of playing in the national team is different, it’s a total joy because you are in a family that is your country, your people. The emotions are huge and now that we are about to qualify for the World Cup , you can not describe it. Representing Colombia is everything to me. My favorite country after Colombia? USA. I’ve been there several times on vacation with my family. I like Los Gringos’ way of life.”

Guarin on success: “I learned about humility as a child and those who know me know that I’ve had to fight to get what I have. The chance to show my talent to the world doesn’t change who I am or my thoughts. My friends in Europe? In Porto, I had Falcao and James Rodriguez. We were really united on the pitch. In Italy, I fortunately have many teammates from the national team.”

Which his future goals are there’s no doubt: “Helping Inter and have a good season and fight for the Scudetto. With the national team it’s to qualify for the World Cup and play as well as possible. What I will do when I have ended my career? I will live with my family in a beautiful place. I’m going to enjoy my family and everything I like. I would like to live in the United States, specifically in Florida, it’s a place that I love. There, life is peaceful and happy.”

Source: fcinternews.it