Antonio Rudiger says he joined Roma to “prove I can play at this level consistently.”
The 22-year-old joined the Giallorossi from Stuttgart this summer, on loan with the option to buy, but injury has limited him to just two Serie A appearances.
Back in his native Germany, and fit to face Bayer Leverkusen tonight, the centre-back spoke to Sport 1 about his reasons for moving to Italy.
“I just want to play and gain experience against top teams in the League and the Champions League,” Rudiger explained.
Antonio Rudiger says he joined Roma to “prove I can play at this level consistently.”
The 22-year-old joined the Giallorossi from Stuttgart this summer, on loan with the option to buy, but injury has limited him to just two Serie A appearances.
Back in his native Germany, and fit to face Bayer Leverkusen tonight, the centre-back spoke to Sport 1 about his reasons for moving to Italy.
“I just want to play and gain experience against top teams in the League and the Champions League,” Rudiger explained.
“Other big clubs tried for me, but I was convinced to come to Roma, not just for sporting reasons, but personal ones.
“Going to a foreign country, settling there, learning the language – I like that. I still need to adapt to succeed, but I’m only 22, and I still have a long way to go.
“I want to prove I can play at this level consistently, and to do that I have to make sure the Coach [Rudi Garcia] has faith in me.
“I feel good and I want to play, it’s very simple.”
Rudiger’s second game in a Roma shirt was the draw with European Champions Barcelona, but the German insists he was not nervous.
“Daniele De Rossi told me before the game that there was no reason to worry. I wanted to stay focused, and show what I’ve learned in training.
“When the Champions League anthem started, it was a special moment for me. The atmosphere in the stadium was sensational.
“We’re not afraid of Messi and co.”
Finally, the defender was asked how he’s adapting to life in the Italian capital.
“I’m good in Rome, I’m happy,” Rudiger assured.
“I’m learning very quickly from my teammates. The fans are phenomenal, something truly special. Rome is a big city, and there’s always something to do.
“The Coliseum, Piazza di Spagna, vespas… and of course beautiful Italian girls.”