Matias Vecino became the latest Inter player to hold a live question and answer session on the club’s social media channels earlier on today and he firstly spoke on what he is doing to occupy his time whilst football is off.
“We have to wait for this tricky situation to improve and we must respect the rules so that everything returns to normal. During these days, I spend a lot of time with my family, I train, we play cards, ping-pong and watch TV, I’m currently watching Vikings, it’s a bit different but I like it,” he started.
The Uruguayan national team midfielder then went on recall some of his decisive goals he has scored for Inter, such as the Champions League qualification clinching header against Lazio.
“It was an important moment for me because I was coming from a period when I had had some problems, and that goal made us end the season with a win that allowed Inter to return to the Champions League. That’s a memory I’ll never forget, the match was like a final: the adrenaline meant I didn’t sleep much that night.
“It was a bit different with Tottenham, but that was also another comeback as we had been 1-0 down; to score a goal like that in front of the fans was amazing.”
He then spoke on what it feels like to represent Inter: “Going out on the pitch wearing Inter’s shirt is an incredible feeling, the first time I experienced that was against Fiorentina, so I had to go up against my ex-teammates, and it was a special game that Inter won 3-0.”
Vecino then went on to discuss the importance of family to him and spoke on his roots: “For me, my family is everything. It gives me strength and incentive to try and improve myself every day, and I dedicate every goal I score to them.
“The people of Uruguay have a strong culture of hard work and sacrifice, we’re a small country with about three million citizens, but there are so many players from Uruguay who play for big sides. We’re capable of adapting a lot and this gives us strength.
“For us, mate is sacred! It’s a kind of bitter tea, it has a strong taste, but we’re used to it, it’s part of our tradition. It’s also made in Argentina but with different herbs, and in Paraguay it’s made with cold water.
“The garra charrua? The ‘charrua’ were the Indians who lived in the territories of Rio de la Plata, who rebelled and fought not to be colonised.
“This has been translated to use in football terms as a force, a spiritual path that allows you to keep fighting and never give up, as happened to the national teams that won two World Cups and 15 Coppa America; that’s the ‘mythology’ that belongs to the phrase.”
Vecino then went on to reveal there is a lot of work that goes into what he does on the field and discussed his relationships with fellow midfielders Borja Valero and Marcelo Brozovic.
“There’s a lot behind what we do on the pitch, from training to nutrition, like everyone I have ups and downs during the year, but being a dynamic player if I’m in good physical shape then my performances are better.
“I have had a teammate that’s been with me throughout my time in Italy, Borja Valero. He’s the guy I’ve spent the most time with in the world of football after three years together at Fiorentina and three years here, he also lives near me.
“Marcelo Brozovic? Marcelo is very strong, it’s true that he runs a lot, but I’d win. He’s unique, he’s nice and really funny.”
He then went on to share his desire to write his name into Inter’s history books.
“I hope I can make a mark here and be remembered in a group of players who have created Inter history. Obviously, you have to win some trophies to do that, and we’re working on that and hopefully we’ll succeed.”
In conclusion he revealed who he looked up to as a child and how Chinese fans support him every time he is in the country.
“My favourite player? I’ve always said Veron, who I followed as a kid; he was one of my idols.
“Since being here, I’ve been to China three times, both with the national team and with Inter and I was surprised because they have a great passion for football and Inter: I remember the airport was full of Nerazzurri fans.”
