Inter defender Juan Jesus “can’t wait to play with Nemanja Vidic” and believes Mateo Kovacic “is the new Andres Iniesta.”
The Brazil international’s season is over after he suffered a complete rupture of the medial collateral ligament in his right knee.
Inter defender Juan Jesus “can’t wait to play with Nemanja Vidic” and believes Mateo Kovacic “is the new Andres Iniesta.”
The Brazil international’s season is over after he suffered a complete rupture of the medial collateral ligament in his right knee.
“This was my first serious injury. I hope to recover as quickly as possible,” he wrote in a Twitter Q&A.
“It’s certainly boring not being able to play. I already had this routine of training, retreat, game. It will pass. I am treating it as an experience.
“The thing that struck me most about the Inter fans is their support, as they are truly passionate about the team. Would I like to become Inter captain? Of course, but it’s not just up to me. My dream is to take Inter as far as possible.
“The player who most inspired me was Lucio, while I’d love to have Thiago Motta in the Brazil squad. My idol in football is Cristiano Ronaldo and the best I played with was without doubt Coutinho. He did some crazy things and is also a very good friend.
“The toughest player to mark is Carlos Tevez. He’s very strong, always wants the ball, moves continually and that means you must always be very careful.
“As a child I played practically every position! I was a striker, then a midfielder, then a defender… I’m missing goalkeeper!”
Juan Jesus was asked about current Inter Coach Walter Mazzarri and the tactical systems.
“A three or four man defence makes no difference to me. Mazzarri is a great Coach who always gave me a chance.
“Playing alongside Walter Samuel was very helpful, as he is a champion and taught me many good things about being on the pitch.
“It will be an important experience to play alongside Vidic and I can learn so much. I can’t wait.
“It is a real joy to play for Inter. How much do I love Inter? I only love my family more than Inter! The Milan Derby is indescribable, just mad and the most important derby in Italy. When I first played for the Nerazzurri, I was making a dream come true and starting the biggest opportunity of my life.
“Would I go to Juventus or Milan? I’d never do that, as I have too much respect for Inter, the fans and the club.
“Where do I see myself in five years? As captain of Inter. I’d certainly have a lot more experience at that point.
“What do I think of Mateo Kovacic? In my view, he is the new Iniesta. I keep telling him he needs to shoot more.”