Udinese trequartista Lazar Samardzic reflected on his move to Italy, his decision to turn down Milan and his admiration of Inter’s Henrikh Mkhitaryan.
The 20-year-old German midfielder joined the Bianconeri last summer from RB Leipzig in a deal worth around €3m and things have started well in Udine. This season, Samardzic has started to hit the ground running, scoring in Udinese’s last two games against Roma and Sassuolo.
Speaking to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Samardzic first discussed his role as a trequartista and how he’s adapted to Udinese’s system.
“I fit in and shoot. I was born a trequartista, I’ve always been a number 10. But here at Udinese that role doesn’t exist because we play with a 3-5-2 and I’m adapting to play as a mezzala.”
He reflected on the time he turned down Milan and remembered the talks with Paolo Maldini.
“I came to Milan with my whole family. We spoke with Paolo Maldini, but I didn’t feel like having an experience in a big city at that time.
“Barcelona came instead. With Patrick Kluivert. But I chose RB Leipzig, it was an hour from home. And it was a good choice.”
The 20-year-old touched on some of his midfield idols.
“As a child I was crazy for Ozil, now of course for the strongest, De Bruyne. I also have him in my personal FIFA team where I am practically unbeatable. Also our goalkeeper Silvestri who is good.”
Finally, Samardzic spoke highly about Inter’s Mkhitaryan.
“Henrikh Mkhitaryan is the number one danger, I like him because he has everything, left foot, right foot. Great player, I’ll ask him for his shirt.”
Contracted to Udinese until 2026, Samardzic is slowly growing and adapting to life in Serie A and he could be ready for the jump to a top club in the coming years, taking this opportunity to develop in Udine.