Inter target Marash Kumbulla discussed his career and his first season in Serie A with Hellas Verona in an interview in today’s paper edition of the Milano based newspaper Corriere della Sera.
“I’m very serious, it’s true, but only when necessary. I also know how to have fun. My dad and the coach simply mean that I’m mature for my age.”
He spoke about a comment made by former Albania coach Gianni De Biasi, who suggested that young Albanians are hungrier than young Italians.
“Let’s say that young Albanians come from a different culture, which maybe allows them to have more stimuli and ambitions.”
Kumbulla touched on how it felt to play in Serie A with the same shirt that he wore as a child.
“I think it’s everyone’s dream, it’s already difficult to get to the top, doing it with the team it all started with is indescribable.”
He spoke about the first team that he really felt like he’d ‘made it’.
“When I scored my first goal in Serie A, against Sampdoria, an unforgettable moment.”
The teenager confirmed that he had a poster of Juventus defender Giorgio Chiellini in his bedroom when he was younger.
“Yes, I’ve always admired his determination and his desire to improve himself. He’s a real warrior on the field.”
Kumbulla touched on the Gialloblu’s strong defense this season and how their poor start may have forced them to develop this strength.
“It spurred us to work harder than the others, but we knew we weren’t weak, let alone doomed…”
The Hellas Verona defender spoke about a forward that has given him the most difficulty this season.
“Dybala, for technical and physical characteristics, a tightrope walker.”
He spoke about how he initially played in the centre of a back three before being pushed to the left side.
“I like it a lot, because I also have a certain freedom to go forward.”
Finally, he spoke about a dream he wants to achieve at the age of 20.
“Playing in the Champions League.”