Idrissa Gueye’s presentation press conference was followed by another one for Alessandro Zanoli. As usual, the press conference began with a few words by Managing Director Franco Collavino and Technical Director Gokhan Inler. Then Udinese’s new signing answered the journalists’ questions.
Collavino: “I’m very happy to present Zanoli too. He’s a player we really wanted to sign, as did many other clubs, including ones that play in European competitions. Signing him is a great achievement. He is perhaps the best Italian wing-back, but he can also play as a wide midfielder. He has already had important experiences in Serie A playing for many clubs. He provides added value to the squad as well as alternatives. He adapts perfectly to the coach’s philosophy of play. So we are happy to have him here, welcome to Udinese.”
Inler: “Alessandro is a player I’ve always liked on the pitch. We wanted to sign him a year ago, but we waited too long. We followed him carefully throughout the entire season and in the end we signed him. He’s a great person who wants to improve, and here he will find an environment with a different environment. I’m happy I’ll get to work with him. He always gives it everything he’s got and he has already played in Serie A. Welcome to our family.”
Zanoli: “I’m happy to be here, I’m fired up for this new adventure. I look forward to showing everyone what I can do.”
“Several clubs wanted to sign me, but I chose Udinese because they’d been interested in signing me for months.”
“Knowing that I can stay here is an additional asset. Always worrying about having to return to your club at the end of the season is very hard. Now I can plan something over a number of years and I’m happy to be here.”
“I prefer playing as a wing-back, as I did for Sampdoria. I’m an attacking phase player, while I have to improve in the defensive phase.”
“The team have had two good games so far, but it’s still early. The season is long. Let’s focus on one match at a time, starting with Pisa.”
“Tomorrow I’d like to play the entire match and make my contribution, but it depends on the coach. We also have other good players.”
“[Antonio] Conte made me run a lot and that’s an additional asset I can offer. He’s a coach who also gives you the right mindset and the grit you need to win.”
“Coach [Kosta] Runjaic said the same things he says to all the other wingers. I follow his advice and his tactical instructions.”
“[Nicolo] Zaniolo was in great shape; he wants to get back on track and do well at a club that has everything he needs to succeed.”
“The facilities here are great, especially the stadium, where I had already played as an opponent.”