New Fiorentina goalkeeper Marco Sportiello believes Ciprian Tatarusanu, his rival for the gloves, is “underrated”.
The 24-year-old has joined the Viola from Atalanta, on loan with an option to buy, and was officially presented to the media today.
“Firstly I’d like to thank Fiorentina for the trust they’ve shown in me,” Sportiello began the Press conference by saying.
New Fiorentina goalkeeper Marco Sportiello believes Ciprian Tatarusanu, his rival for the gloves, is “underrated”.
The 24-year-old has joined the Viola from Atalanta, on loan with an option to buy, and was officially presented to the media today.
“Firstly I’d like to thank Fiorentina for the trust they’ve shown in me,” Sportiello began the Press conference by saying.
“My first objective is to integrate and to understand what the Coach wants from me, then to put that into practice. Then with work and patience we’ll see what happens.
“I’ll try to be ready when there’s a chance, there are no guarantees. Tatarusanu is here, a goalkeeper who I respect a lot, so I’ll work calmly and wait for my chance.
“My aim now is to find space and be ready. I’m on hand to help out if I’m needed. Tatarusanu is underrated, he’s a great goalkeeper and I can confirm that having seen him in training.”
Sportiello has been named as one of the up-and-coming young goalkeepers who could replace Gianluigi Buffon for the national team.
“It’s a dream for everyone, and I’d love to be a part of the squad for the next World Cup.”
The ‘keeper was also asked about the possibility of Nikola Kalinic leaving, as a move to Tianjin Quanjian appears to be moving closer.
“He’s a great striker who scored against me last year,” Sportiello recalled.
“I know him well enough as an opponent, and I hope to get to know him as a teammate. If he stays or not isn’t up to me, it’s down to him and the club.”