Destiny Udogie and Daniele Padelli have given their first interview as Udinese players. Hear what they had to say below alongside comments from Sporting Director Pierpaolo Marino.
Marino: I'm delighted to welcome Udogie and Padelli. They both stand out for different reasons: Padelli for his experience, while Udogie is someone you might call a “wonderkid". Padelli returns to Udine after 10 years, this time with the Scudetto sewn on his chest. He has great charisma and he brings professionalism and leadership to the pitch.
I can’t believe that Destiny is not even 19 years old yet. He keeps himself to himself and shows his talents on the pitch. We don't have to worry about burdening him with too many responsibilities because he can handle anything. We made an investment for the future, but with him the future starts now.
Padelli: First of all I’d like to thank the club for the opportunity to wear these black and white colours again. I’ve returned with more experience compared to 9 years ago, and I’m here to pass this on to my younger teammates to hopefully improve our mental strength as a group this season.
Udinese is a breeding ground for goalkeeping talent. I’m delighted to be able to work with Silvestri, Scuffet, Piana and the coaches. We have a great group and we're giving it everything in preparing for this season, which has to be of the utmost importance for everyone. It is fundamental to be a united group, both for those who take the field and those who do not. Those who play less must always train at 100% to give the coach something to think about and to always be ready. These are the things that push us all to improve.
Udine is in my destiny. I started my Serie A career here, I got married here and I made my debut with Inter in the league against Udinese too. I feel close to Udine as a city, as a club, and as a place to live.
Udogie: Udinese is a club that puts faith in youth, so I couldn’t ask for more. This is a great opportunity for me and it will be up to me to grab it with both hands.
This is a strong and close-knit group. We worked a lot in pre-season training and we're preparing as well as possible for the season ahead.
I've played in lots of different positions but I'm best as a wing back. I like attacking a lot and I think that's my ideal role. The coach agrees with me and I think I can offer something both defensively and offensively.
Tomorrow’s game against Ascoli will be an important test. We feel ready because we have worked hard to prepare for it, and it will be important to win and start strong. The return of the fans will give us extra energy and adrenaline, too
Our objectives are definitely to avoid relegation, but I also hope we can go as far as possible in the Coppa Italia. Personally, I hope to play as much as possible and that will depend on the work I put in.