During an exclusive interview with FIFA.com, João Miranda discussed this summer’s World Cup in Russia, as well as Inter’s hopes of qualifying for next season’s UEFA Champions League. Here is what he had to say:

“I think that the World Cup will come at the best possible moment for me. I have grown a lot during my time at Inter, both in terms of experience and on a tactical level. I felt I had a great chance of being called up for the last two World Cups though I feel much better prepared this time around.

“As a defender and as a player who loves the tactical side of the game, I know that what matters most is that the team’s system is well organised, with every single player following the same philosophy.

“I cannot afford to think too much about the World Cup right now. I’m just focusing on getting ready, doing my best and having a great season with Inter. My main goal now is to help the team qualify for the Champions League. We know that the best way to prepare for international duty is to do well with our clubs. We all share this mentality.”