Legendary former Inter goalkeeper Julio Cesar has shared his pride at his contribution to Inter’s history during his spell with the club.
Cesar joined Inter in 2005 from Chievo Verona and spent the next seven years with the Nerazzurri club, in which he made exactly 300 appearances, kept a total of 128 clean sheets and picked up an impressive 14 trophies.
“It’s a pleasure to be here. They were seven great years. It’s great to see these trophies and know that I’m a part of this story, of the amazing moments I had while wearing this shirt, with this Club,” he told Inter’s official broadcaster Inter TV when he visisted Inter’s headquarters on Monday afternoon.
“Every time I get the chance to come to Milan and meet the fans, I love to chat about the beautiful moments we went through together. It’s nice to know that I made a mark both on their hearts and on the pitch, and that I was able to show who I am.
“I was never embarrassed to show my emotions, even in front of the TV cameras and that allowed me to be even closer to them. This was a home for me and my family, and it allowed me to prove myself on an international level. I can only be thankful to this club.”
The recently turned 41-year-old then went on to speak about what he is doing to keep himself occupied following his retirement a few seasons ago.
“I’m now working as an agent. After I retired in 2018, that’s what I gravitated towards. I started to study and I think that thanks to my story and with what I’ve experienced in the world of football, it’s a great opportunity to be able to help others become professional footballers and reach their dream, which was also my dream.”
Cesar proceeded to recall an anecdote from an Inter training session and spoke about his transformation into a goalkeeper and when that came about.
“In training, I caused problems for a few of my teammates. I remember during training Burdisso got angry for a little number I did on him.
“I started playing football at five years old as an outfield player, then I discovered this passion and I went in goal. I then understood what I wanted for my future.
“That was a moment of change and they were looking for goalkeepers, who could play with their feet as well. I was able to do that.
“Football today has changed a lot. You need to be good with your feet even if you’re in goal, because the goalie is now one extra player to put the opposition at a numerical disadvantage.”
The former Queen’s Park Rangers shot-stopper then went on to share his thoughts about the current Inter side.
“Conte is doing a great job. Unfortunately, we didn’t win the final but we went close and I think that this group will only improve and, day after day, get back that trust to win.”
In conclusion he sent a message to the Inter faithful: “I’ll always be grateful to all those who embraced me and showed me affection over the seven years that I was here. They’ll always have a place in my heart.”
