New Genoa defender Jawad El Yamiq is relishing his transfer and reveals Juventus star Medhi Benatia “is like a brother to me.”
The Morocco international turns 26 later this month and made the move from Raja Casablanca on transfer deadline day.
“I didn’t expect to come to Genoa, but when the offer arrived, I had no doubts and immediately accepted. I will give my all for this club,” he said.
New Genoa defender Jawad El Yamiq is relishing his transfer and reveals Juventus star Medhi Benatia “is like a brother to me.”
The Morocco international turns 26 later this month and made the move from Raja Casablanca on transfer deadline day.
“I didn’t expect to come to Genoa, but when the offer arrived, I had no doubts and immediately accepted. I will give my all for this club,” he said.
“I am a quick player and good in the air. I think I’m also strong in physical duels with opponents, but of course I’m not perfect and can always improve. I’ve played with a three-man defence before, so it’s not an issue. If the Coach asks, I’ll even play in goal!
“I called Adel Taarabt before coming to Genoa and he spoke very highly of the city. I can see he was right, it’s beautiful. I am at an ambitious club with a glorious history and hope to be a protagonist in its future.”
Taarabt isn’t the only player who can help El Yamiq settle in Serie A, as he considers Juventus centre-back Benatia “like a brother to me. He encouraged me to come here and take this opportunity.
“I talk to him every day and he pushes me on to do more, because doing well in Italy will be very important for my career. It’s helpful that there is already such a big Moroccan community in Genoa, including my sister. That’s why I’ve known about the Genoa Derby for many years. I always asked her to send me a jersey and she never did. Now I have one of my own.”