David Alaba, Udinese’s new signing, was unveiled today at a press conference which took place today at 12:00 CEST at Bluenergy Stadium.
Accompanying the Austrian defender at his first media appearance as a Udinese player were General Manager Franco Collavino, Group Technical Director Gianluca Nani and Sporting Director Gokhan Inler.
General Manager Franco Collavino opened the press conference:
“David Alaba needs no introduction. He’s a highly decorated player who’s played for some of the world’s most prestigious clubs and has been a key figure for the Austrian national team for years.
“David Alaba needs no introduction. He’s a highly decorated player who’s played for some of the world’s most prestigious clubs and has been a key figure for the Austrian national team for years.
“I’d like to offer a simple yet sincere welcome to David. He’s joining a club with 130 years of history - Italy’s second-oldest professional club - which is deeply rooted in its local area. He isn't coming here to celebrate his past, but to be part of the present. He possesses great qualities, and we want him to make an impact, by helping us win and passing on his mindset and culture of excellence to the many talented players in our squad.”
Group Technical Director Gianluca Nani then spoke:
“We’re used to seeing our players move on to big clubs. This time, a player is joining from a major club to play for us.
“We’re used to seeing our players move on to big clubs. This time, a player is joining from a major club to play for us.
“David brings prestige to our project. We’re talking about a player of the highest calibre and stature – it’s hard to find a player with a trophy cabinet like his.
“It’s an honour and a privilege for us to have him here, as well as an opportunity to continue our growth. I’d like to thank him for choosing Udinese, for bringing us his experience and above all his winning mentality. David is coming here to continue his career, not to wind it down. We’re convinced that working with him will be a privilege for everyone."
Sporting Director Gokhan Inler then highlighted our new signing’s character and mindset:
“It’s truly special to feel the emotion and energy that David has. These are qualities he’s always demonstrated throughout his career. He’s a born winner, and I’m very pleased with this mindset, which he has shown from day one.
“It’s truly special to feel the emotion and energy that David has. These are qualities he’s always demonstrated throughout his career. He’s a born winner, and I’m very pleased with this mindset, which he has shown from day one.
“We’re incredibly proud to have him at the club. Like all our players, he’ll have our full support, and we’re delighted to accompany him on this new journey."
It was then David Alaba’s turn to speak.
“Thank you for such a warm welcome. I already feel at home. I took the time I needed to make this decision, and as the days went by, I became increasingly convinced that Udine was the right place for me at this stage of my career.
“Fitness-wise, I feel great and I’m ready for action. I started training with the lads last week. We’ve worked well, and I can safely say that I’m in excellent shape.
“I’ve spoken with the coach over the last few weeks. In recent years, I’ve played primarily as a centre-back, and I believe that’s the position where I can perform at my best. However, I can play in other roles when necessary - even in midfield. I’ve always been a very versatile player.
“I’m here to help the team – that’s what matters. However, I believe the role where I can make the biggest contribution is as a central defender.
“It’s not the first time in my career that I’ve found myself in the role of 'big brother.' I’m a guy who likes embracing responsibility. I’m one of the most experienced players in the Austrian national team as well, and I’ve been through similar situations at Bayern Munich and Real Madrid. I know my qualities and the experience I bring to the table. I want to put them to the service of Udinese.
“Serie A has always fascinated me, and it’s certainly one of the reasons I chose to come to Udine. It’s one of the best leagues in Europe, and I’m very happy to be able to be able to experience this.
“Udinese is a historic club that’s been in Serie A for many years. I was already familiar with the club, because I also spoke with friends and players who currently play or have played in Italy. I gave a lot of thought to my decision and formed my own opinion.
“I spoke with many friends who’ve plied their trade here in Italy, such as [Luka] Modric, [Franck] Ribery and [Marko] Arnautovic. They told me all about the league and helped me get to know it even better.
“I’m here to play my football and to write the next chapters of my career. I’ve got experience, I know my qualities, and I want to bring them to the forefront here.
“I chose Udine with my future in mind. I’m a very ambitious person - I always want more, which is partly why I chose this project. I believe it is the right step for my career.
“I really like Udine. It’s a small but beautiful city, and I’ve already had the chance to walk around the centre. The club has fantastic facilities, and everyone I’ve met has left a great impression on me.
“I’ve met my new team-mates and seen a lot of quality. For example, [Oumar] Solet has great ability and can make a difference. The same goes for the squad as a whole.
“I’ve also watched the recent matches, and I think the team has shown it has quality and margin for growth. We need to turn our efforts into the points we deserve and grow in belief in order to get the three points in games.
“Training has been very intense, but I’ve settled in well. I’m ready and feeling great. Of course, it’s ultimately up to the coach.”