Gagliardini: "So exciting to join Inter"

APPIANO GENTILE – Roberto Gagliardini was in the hot seat for today’s episode of Caffe Doppio on Inter Channel, talking about his arrival at the club and the team’s current form.

"It was so exciting to join Inter,” he began. "If I think about where I am now compared to where I was a year ago, I’m absolutely delighted. Clearly, I mustn’t let myself believe I’ve made it and I try to give it my all whenever I’m called upon.

"At the beginning, the team was performing well and the results were very positive as we climbed back up the table. Unfortunately, then there was this unexpected drop-off in form which is still dragging on. We must think how we can get out of it as soon as possible.

"I’ve never scored that many," Gagliardini said about his prowess in front of goal, "and that’s probably why I’ve always had more of a covering role.

"My first day with the national team was brilliant. There’s a different atmosphere with players who’ve made it and won lots. My first call-up came after a dozen games and I made my debut as an Inter player, which was very emotional. The shirt is at home with my mum and dad who keep absolutely everything.

"This is not who we truly are," the young midfielder insisted, returning to Inter’s current form, "but we have to prove it on the pitch, fighting and playing for ourselves and the fans who come to support us. At the moment, we’re giving a really bad account of ourselves.

"My life has changed and it’s had an impact on my family," he concluded, "but in a calm and positive way. My sister is 18 and still at school, while my brother is at university. My dad is going to retire in a couple of years."