Defender Francesco Acerbi feels that playing for Inter Milan is an impetus to give more on the pitch.
Speaking in the matchday programme for this evening’s Champions League clash vs Real Sociedad, via FCInterNews, the 35-year-old said that “Inter means passion.”
Acerbi is now in his second season at Inter.
The Italian international joined the Nerazzurri from Lazio last summer, initially on loan. Then ahead of this season, Inter made Acerbi’s loan into a permanent deal.
It is not hard to see why Inter decided to keep the veteran defender around.
Acerbi has become a key player for Simone Inzaghi’s team.
The 35-year-old’s performances have been consistently outstanding in an Inter shirt.
And perhaps this is no coincidence. From the perspective of the player himself, there is a sort of extra motivation that comes from playing for Inter.
Acerbi has found the best form of his career, and attributes it to the special feeling that comes from the shirt.
Francesco Acerbi: Inter Means Passion
Acerbi said that “Inter means passion. It’s something unique, it makes you proud.”
He continued that “Wearing this shirt pushes you to always give something more on the pitch.”
“Having great ambitions helps you grow,” he went on. “It’s essential that you always put great effort into everything you do.”
“In my career the idea of the team has always been important. It means having teammates with whom you fight to achieve common goals.”
Acerbi reflected that “You can win or lose. But it’s essential to help each other, and in this group that’s the way it is.”
He continued that “I’ve always liked to put myself to the test.”
“I’ve always liked to come up against the very best. Ever since I was a child.”
“That’s how we grow,” the Inter defender explained.
And as far as any advice to his younger self, Acerbi said that “I’d tell him to always enjoy himself on the pitch.”
“To play with a smile on his face.”
“But at the same time, to always put the maximum effort into everything,” the defender added. “Dedication and humility are key.”
