Skriniar: "When I think back to when I joined Inter, I still get emotional"

MILAN – Milan Skriniar appeared on 'I signori della Serie A' ('The men of Serie A') and talked about everything from his childhood dreams to joining Inter: "My dream as a child was always to become a footballer and play for a number of great clubs, like Inter for example. I was born into a football-loving family: my father played the game, as did my grandfather and brother, so we were always interested in football. My idol was Ronaldo 'The Phenomenon'. I remember him well, especially at the 2002 World Cup, when he won the Golden Boot."

From childhood to adulthood, the Slovakian has seen his dreams come true and has actually played in a number of positions out on the pitch: "Like every child, I wanted to score goals and provide assists, and as a youngster I played in attack. Then, bit by bit, I dropped deeper and deeper, and now I hope I won’t end up as a goalkeeper (he laughs). Now, I’m in my preferred position, in central defence."

He joined Inter in July 2017: "When I came to Milan, I remember arriving at Malpensa Airport. Then I had to go for medical tests before arriving at Inter’s headquarters. In my head I was saying: 'Okay, come on, I’ll put pen to paper immediately' (he laughs once more). After coming to an agreement, I was sitting there and just waiting for them to bring me the contract to sign. I was really happy, I felt really emotional and still do now when I think back to it."

Luciano Spalletti and the Nerazzurri fans were among the first supporters of Skriniar: "Spalletti gave me confidence right from the start. I think he works in a precise way. He puts a lot of work into it and wants everything to be clear, and this is something that I like. I think he’s a great coach. I have a great rapport with the Nerazzurri fans. I always try to give my all out on the pitch, and the supporters see this. This is perhaps why they applaud and give me their backing."

He then spoke about his partnership with Stefan De Vrij: "I also get along with him off the pitch, we often share a room and therefore talk a lot. During games, we support each other, and this is important for a backline. In my opinion, a defender needs to be ready to face different kinds of players: sometimes you have to play against quicker players, while at times a player could be larger or have more technical ability. Therefore, you need to be ready."

Finally, he talked about the future: "As I’ve already said, when I was younger I wanted to become a footballer and play for a top club, and now I’m at a top club. Like all players, I want to win something. The Champions League? Yes, of course. It would be the best thing possible if I won the Champions League with Inter."