New signing Geoffrey Kondogbia has been officially presented by Inter director general Marco Fassone today at Inters pre season training camp in Brunico.
The 22 year old midfielder revealed the reasons behind his decision to choose Inter ahead of other clubs, in the press conference.
Here is what Marco Fassone had to say about Inters new signing:
“This is our chance to give Geoffrey a really big welcome to our club. We’re both proud and thrilled that he has chosen to tie his name to our colours for many years to come. We hope they will be highly successful years for him and for us.”
Kondogbia then took the microphone and explained the reasons behind his move:
“I chose to come and play in Serie A because I think it’s an important step up in my career and because I believe it will help to improve me as a player.”
“I spoke to the coach and he convinced me. I’m sure that Inter, with the plans they have, is the best club for me. The newspapers said I’d already agreed to sign for AC Milan but it’s not true.”
The Inter fans enthusiasm and joining a club where expectations are always high:
“I’ve noticed how passionate the fans are but I don’t feel any particular pressure from them. We’re Inter and it’s only right that we should set out to win things.”
The chance to play against your fellow countryman Paul Pogba?
“I’ve never played against him before but I’d like to. I’m confident about the coming season. There’s a lot of work to do but I’m sure we’ll do a good job.”
Your ability?
“I think I’ve shown what I’m capable of as a footballer but it’s a bit too early to say whether I can be a leader at Inter, there are big players here already.”
How do you feel about being placed in the same bracket as various world class midfielders?
“People have compared me to Toure and Vieira but out of the two Toure is the player I look up to most. As for my position, I don’t have any specific preference; I’m happy to play wherever the gaffer wants me.”
“I think one of my key attributes is my strength, while I need to work more on the defensive side of my game.”
On the subject of strength:
“I used to love boxing as a kid because I didn’t really like the rules of football. I was looking for something with more discipline.”
What did Mancini say to convince you to come to Inter?
“He said lots of things and laid out the club’s plans to me. When a coach like Mancini comes calling, you can’t really say no.”
Finally, why did you choose the No. 7 and how are you settling in?
“My son and my mum were both born on the 7th. There’s a great atmosphere here and I’ve found it really easy to slot in immediately.”
Source: inter.it
