Inter's new signing Andrea Ranocchia says it is “a dream come true” to have joined the giants. “I am ready, but know it's only the start.”
The defender was already co-owned by the Nerazzurri, but completed the transfer from Genoa six months early for €12.5m.
“This is what I dreamed of since I first started playing football. Now it has come true,” declared the Italy international in his Press conference.
Inter's new signing Andrea Ranocchia says it is “a dream come true” to have joined the giants. “I am ready, but know it's only the start.”
The defender was already co-owned by the Nerazzurri, but completed the transfer from Genoa six months early for €12.5m.
“This is what I dreamed of since I first started playing football. Now it has come true,” declared the Italy international in his Press conference.
“I feel ready, even if I am here with great humility to put myself at the service of the team. I realise this is only the start for me.”
Ranocchia would've made the leap to senior Italy player earlier, but spent half of last season on the treatment table.
“The knee injury is behind me now and it certainly helped to strengthen my character. I am very excited and it feels wonderful to be here.
“I'm sure there will be games where I'll be on the bench or even in the stands. What I am focusing on is always making it a difficult choice for the Coach.”
Ranocchia could make his debut in Thursday's big match against Napoli, which also represents Leonardo's first game in charge.
“I played in a three-man defence and a flat back four at Genoa, so it won't be a problem for me to adapt to different roles. In fact, as a child I wanted to be a striker and my idol was Ronaldo.
“The atmosphere at Inter is wonderful. We work very hard, but also know how to joke around a lot during the training sessions. Leonardo is a Coach who likes to interact with his players and I appreciate that a lot.
“He told me that if I have any problems, to come straight to him without hesitation. That is important for a player to know.”