Inter defender Stefan de Vrij spoke in the club’s matchday programme for this evening’s clash against Juventus at the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza.
“Every year, month and day are good for growing and learning. Looking back perhaps the difficult times are those that have strengthened me the most. Now when a negative thing happens, I say to myself that this must help me to be stronger.”
“Last year, after the elimination in the Europa League, I was upset, but I was already thinking about how to redeem myself. Then there was the derby and I scored; it was one of the best matches along with my Champions League debut against Tottenham.”
The 27-year-old also spoke of his happiness with the squad and his affection for the Nerazzurri fans.
“I liked setting the scene before, but in Italy I learned to work in a unit, to defend tactically and it helped me a lot. For me having the right spirit and atmosphere is essential, it is important that everyone sacrifices things for each other and this year there is a great group. The new players have integrated well. With Godin. we talk a lot and training with them every day helps me a lot. The fans? I like to feel their affection and reciprocate whenever I can.”