Jordan Veretout believes Roma represent a ‘step forward’ in his career after being unveiled by his new club.
Roma signed Veretout for €17m plus bonuses last weekend, and the former Fiorentina midfielder is ready to make his mark on Paulo Fonseca’s new-look team.
“I’ve played in every midfield role,” he began.
Jordan Veretout believes Roma represent a ‘step forward’ in his career after being unveiled by his new club.
Roma signed Veretout for €17m plus bonuses last weekend, and the former Fiorentina midfielder is ready to make his mark on Paulo Fonseca’s new-look team.
“I’ve played in every midfield role,” he began.
“Playing in front of the defence was new for me and I learned a lot. You need to read the game more there than you do further afield.
“I must keep improving and progressing. It’s different playing in a three-man midfield than it is in a two: in a three my role would be more as a ‘mezz’ala’, with a greater propensity to attack, while in a two it’s necessary to find the right balance between the two of you to keep things secure in your own half.
“The Coach likes purposeful football. He signed me to be his ‘regista’, so it’ll also be necessary to play well in a defensive sense.
“I joined Roma because they’re a great club. I talked to the Coach on the phone and he convinced me.
“I wanted to come here and this represents a step forward in my career. Roma are a great team who always aim to play in the Champions League. They previously reached the semi-finals.
“The objective is to return to the Champions League and it’s up to us to work towards it. Roma’s fans are also extraordinary. I hope to have a great season and make them happy.
“The number I preferred was already taken, so I’ll take some time out to pick another. I didn’t talk to Montella about Roma. It was my intention to take a step forward in my career and choose Roma.”
The 26-year-old was then asked about succeeding Radja Nainggolan, Kevin Strootman and Daniele De Rossi in the Giallorossi’s engine room, as well as his hopes of a France call-up.
“They’re three great players. I’ll strive to do my best and I hope to have a good season. I haven’t had a chance to talk to Florenzi yet, but he sent me a message when I arrived and I was pleased to hear from him. I’ll have the opportunity in the next few days.
“I won the U-20 World Cup with Pogba and I’ve played for all the youth teams. Now my objective is to reach the senior national team. I’m sure I’ll be tracked more at Roma.”