Manchester United full-back Matteo Darmian admits he struggled to adapt to English football – “it's more physical and less tactical.”
The Italian international joined the Red Devils from Torino last summer, but after winning praise for his early displays his form dropped-off.
Having scored a wondergoal against Crystal Palace in midweek, the 26-year-old feels he’s finally adapted to the English game.
Manchester United full-back Matteo Darmian admits he struggled to adapt to English football – “it's more physical and less tactical.”
The Italian international joined the Red Devils from Torino last summer, but after winning praise for his early displays his form dropped-off.
Having scored a wondergoal against Crystal Palace in midweek, the 26-year-old feels he’s finally adapted to the English game.
“I think, for a player, it's always difficult to change the culture and also to change the football because the Premier League is different from Serie A,” Darmian told reporters ahead of the FA Cup semi-final with Everton.
“It’s more physical and less tactical, all of the teams play stronger, but I try to adapt to this type of game and this type of football.
“Yes, at the beginning my football was very good but sometimes it can happen, a period when we aren’t so good physically. Now, I’m focused on the end of the season and I look forward to doing better.”
Wembley Stadium will host the cup tie, and Darmian is looking forward to visiting the iconic arena.
“It’s the first time to play there for me so I’m really proud and it’s a big game.
“Every player wants to play in this kind of game but the manager [Louis van Gaal] chooses the line-up so I have to be ready.
“We know the importance of the game, it’s a big chance to win a trophy. We want to be ready for the fight, because I think it will be a difficult game, but like always we want to win.”