New Tottenham signing Destiny Udogie says Theo Hernandez and Alphonso Davies are his role models and insists Premier League is more competitive than Serie A.
The U21 Italy international signed for Spurs in the summer, but has remained on loan at Udinese until the end of the season.
“I love the Premier League, it’s a competitive league, like Serie A, but the level is higher. For now, I watch it on TV to improve,” the 20-year-old told Gazzetta.
“I’ve always spoken English, it’s the first language my parents taught me. We also speak Italian, French, Spanish and Portuguese in the dressing room.”
Which clubs did he support as a kid and who is his role model?
“I used to be a Milan fan, but when I started playing on the left I fell in love with Marcelo. I like Theo Hernandez, same as Alphonso Davies.”
Udinese had a solid start to the season, beating Inter and Roma, but won their last Serie A game in October. Nevertheless, Andrea Sottil is imposing himself as one of the most exciting emerging coaches in Italy.
“I like him because he has a clear identity, he is a direct person and tells you clearly what he wants so everyone follows him,” said Udogie.
The left wing-back has played 52 games in Serie A, scoring seven goals. Where does he need to improve?
“In everything, I am young, but I must still understand many things about this sport, what I need on the pitch in certain moments,” he said.
Will he get a chance with the senior Italy team soon?
“I hope so, I am quite calm, I think I’ll get a chance if I continue like this, I’ve always been called up in the youth teams.”
Udogie also discussed his hobbies and what he does in his free time, saying that he prefers pasta over McDonald, Miami over Dubai and Nba2k over FIFA.
Last but not least, he was asked to name the potential Italy squad for 2026 when the Azzurri will hopefully play the World Cup.
“It would be a 3-5-2 with Donnarumma in goal, Bastoni on the left and then Okoli and Scalvini. Perhaps Verratti will be a bit old, so let’s say Tonali, Barella and one between Frattesi and Pellegrini. Let’s say Pellegrini. My friend Bellanova on the right, Scamacca and Raspadori up front. On the left? Either me or Dimarco, who is doing so well.”
Pafundi,don’t forget