Denzel Dumfries: “Stefan de Vrij Was Fundamental For My Transfer To Inter”

New Inter signing Denzel Dumfries has opened up about his feelings on life at Inter after his debut and his first few days with his new coach and teammates, and at his new club.

Speaking to Italian broadcaster DAZN, as reported by FCInterNews, the 25-year-old reflected on how proud he is to be a Nerazzurri player, and spoke highly of past Inter players as well as his teammate for club and country Stefan de Vrij.

Dumfries made his debut off the bench during the Nerazzurri’s 4-0 win against Genoa on Saturday, and being able to wear the Nerazzurri colours for the first time was an emotional moment for the Dutchman.

“The debut was fantastic for me,” he said, “My family were also at the stadium, they were happy and proud of me. For me it was a very special moment, entering the pitch for the first time as an Inter player.”

Dumfries also spoke about his admiration for a particular Nerazzurri legend, treble hero Maicon, and explained that the Brazilian’s style of play makes him a role model for a player like himself taking up the right-sided position.

He explained, “One of my reference points was Maicon, he was really a great player.”

Dumfries continued about another Inter legend and current Vice-President, stating that “Zanetti sent me a message when I arrived. It was a really warm welcome. I’ll ask him how I can play many games here at Inter as he did.”

On the task of replacing wing-back Achraf Hakimi following the Moroccan’s departure for Paris Saint-Germain, Dumfries stated that “Hakimi had an incredible season last year, the club also won the Scudetto. But I don’t feel any pressure. I have to play my game and do my best for Inter.”

Lastly, the 25-year-old spoke about the influence that his national teammate de Vrij had on convincing him that Inter is the right destination for him.

“De Vrij played a fundamental role in my transfer to Inter,” explained Dumfries, “He also already knew Inzaghi well from Lazio. But in reality I had talked about Inter with him in the national team two years ago.”

“He always told me that this was a great club and that he hoped that one day I would come join, and now we are both happy that I finally arrived here,” he continued.

Dumfries closed by talking about his relationship with de Vrij, stating that “He he helps me with the language. So Stefan is not only a central defender, but also like an agent? Yes exactly, he is also more or less an agent!”