Dalbert cited Vincenzo Montella’s style of football, playing alongside Franck Ribery and Valentin Eysseric’s inside info among the reasons why he chose Fiorentina as he was unveiled to the media at a news conference on Friday.
The Brazilian full-back, who completed his move from Inter on Thursday, was introduced by Giancarlo Antognoni and Daniele Prade.
The sporting director explained: “Dalbert is a player we discussed in our first meeting with Vincenzo Montella back in June. It took a while but we got him in the end. We believe him to be an excellent player.
“He’s joined on a straight loan deal because of the contract between Inter and Nice but there’s a gentleman’s agreement with the player and Inter which means we’ll sit down to discuss another deal at the end of the season.”
The player himself then fielded questions from journalists.
Which position do you think you perform best in?
“My favourite position is on the flank, especially when I have the opportunity to get forward. I hope to have a successful season here and give the Fiorentina fans something to cheer about.”
Who was your idol as a child and which player did you look up to now?
“Roberto Carlos was my idol when I was young. Now I look up to Marcelo – I like the way he plays football.”
Did Franck Ribery being here have any influence on your choice?
“Of course seeing people like Ribery and [Kevin-Prince] Boateng here made a difference as they’re players I admired when I was younger. I hope to perform well alongside them.”
Why do you think you weren’t able to express your full potential at Inter?
“I adapted quickly when I moved to Portugal and then France but obviously Serie A is very different, especially given the sort of player I am – it’s more tactical and defence-oriented – so I found it a bit harder. I know I didn’t give the best of myself at Inter but I’m sure I can do better here at Fiorentina.”
Did Vincenzo Montella’s preference for building play down the flanks influence your thinking at all?
“The coach has shown he believes greatly in me and, yes, his style of football was one of the reasons that made me want to come here.”
Why did you choose the No.29 shirt?
“It’s a number I’ve worn throughout my career. I had it in Portugal at a time when I had an injury which I recovered from and came back stronger. It has a symbolic value for me.”
How have the first training sessions gone and are you ready to play at the weekend?
“I’m ready because I worked very hard during pre-season with [Antonio] Conte at Inter. I’m available for Sunday’s game.”
Do you think Fiorentina can get into the Europa League?
“I’ve joined this club with the aim of achieving things like qualifying for Europe.”
Has your former Nice team-mate Valentin Eysseric told you anything about Fiorentina?
“Yes, I spoke to him before joining. He told me about the city and the squad here and it made me want to come.”
Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2019 16:02:00 +0200
Source: Fiorentina Official website en.violachannel.tv