Inter Milan star wingback Federico Dimarco expressed his gratitude toward Piero Ausilio for his recent praise of him.
Speaking to Rivista Undici via FCInter1908, Dimarco discussed several topics, including his tumultuous career journey.
Federico Dimarco graduated from Inter’s youth academy in 2015.
However, he had to wait until 2021 to establish himself as a permanent first-team fixture at the San Siro.
Indeed, his career took an upward trajectory during an impressive loan spell at Hellas Verona in 2020/21.
Fast forward four years, Dimarco is one of the world’s most highly-rated wingbacks.
Moreover, he’s an influential figure at Inter, with Simone Inzaghi heavily relying on him on both ends of the pitch.
“I don’t know if I’m a ‘modern flagbearer,” Dimarco admitted. “And I don’t even ask myself that.
“I just focus on giving everything I have for this shirt because I know it deserves to be treated in a special way.”
Inter Milan Superstar Federico Dimarco Addresses Piero Ausilio Praise
Inter sporting director Piero Ausilio encouraged Dimarco upon his return from Stadio Marc’Antonio Bentegodi.
Though it’s been four years since that encounter, the 27-year-old has never forgotten Ausilio’s words.
“I can say who gave me the most unexpected compliment – Piero Ausilio,” Dimarco admitted.
“When I came back from Verona, he told me words that surprised me and that I have never forgotten.”
Asked what sets him apart from his peers, Dimarco replied: “The way I interpret the role.
“Despite playing as a winger on my strong foot, I don’t like to stay on the flank but rather move across the field.
“I often find myself in the position of a central midfielder, even as a forward, also thanks to our playing style.
“It’s something I like, it entertains me, and I believe it entertains the fans as well.”
Then, Dimarco explained it’s harder to stay at the top than to reach it.
“Maintaining it, without a doubt,” he added. “There are many players who reach the elite, but then they last only one or two years.
“To be honest, I’m not going through my best period right now, and when you’re used to being at a high level, you realize it immediately.
“You have to keep your head down and work to improve so you can get out of it as soon as possible.”
Dimarco has a decent left foot but he can’t play a full 90 mins or a few games in succession without getting injured. He is always slouching like he is tired. Inter need a wingback that is fit and can run full pace for the 90 like Dumfries.
Dumfries actually doesn’t get enough credit he can run for the entire 90 minutes and he knows his strength in the air when inside the opposition box. His crosses are not Dimarco level but he has delivered a few great assists with his crosses by simply getting in good position. In form and fit Dumfries and Dimarco is surely a scary prospect to any defence because they compliment each other based on their skill set so both deserves credit