Roma's 17-year-old Edoardo Soleri says he is trying to steal moves from Edin Dzeko, and is delighted at his Champions League debut.
The youngster mostly still plays in the Primavera, but with Dzeko and Francesco Totti both injured and no pure poachers to replace them, Soleri has been given a chance.
“It was a unique, indescribable emotion,” he told Il Corriere dello Sport about his first Champions League game against BATE Borisov. “I couldn't believe it.
Roma's 17-year-old Edoardo Soleri says he is trying to steal moves from Edin Dzeko, and is delighted at his Champions League debut.
The youngster mostly still plays in the Primavera, but with Dzeko and Francesco Totti both injured and no pure poachers to replace them, Soleri has been given a chance.
“It was a unique, indescribable emotion,” he told Il Corriere dello Sport about his first Champions League game against BATE Borisov. “I couldn't believe it.
“[Salih] Ucan was ready, then we scored the 3-2 goal and I came in. Thanks to the Coach for the opportunity!
“Several clubs wanted me, I had trials with Bologna too. Then Roma called me and I stayed with them 15 days.
“When they signed me I understood football could be more than just fun for me.
“At first I struggled, it wasn't easy to pass from the amateurs to the pros. I played as a central midfielder.
“It was a competitive position and I was the third or fourth choice. I developed a lot in that period. But the striker role is best for me.
“With [Primavera Coach Alberto] De Rossi we're doing well, ours is a great team deserving of important results. Our objective is to go the distance in all competitions.
“Italy's U-19 can have its say against any team, we're not afraid of anyone. Of course I'm thinking about Sere A, but right now I'm focused on the U-19 and Primavera teams.”
Finally, Soleri was asked about his models.
“I followed Dzeko ever since his time in Wolfsburg. We have the same build, so I try to steal his moves with my eyes.
“I also have a liking for [Luca] Toni and [Robert] Lewandowski.”
Picture from Uefa.com