PRESS ROOM | Nicola Grandu’s words

Born in Sardinia, in the town of Martis, and having come through Cagliari’s youth academy, Nicola Grandu fulfilled his dream of making his Serie A debut today. Named in the starting XI, the 2006-born winger played his part in the Rossoblù’s victory. After the final whistle, he spoke to the media. Here are his thoughts:

AN UNDESCRIBABLE EMOTION
“It was an incredible feeling, something I had been dreaming of for a long time. The Mister had already told me during the week to be ready, then this morning he told me I would be starting: it was like a shock, and I immediately tried to prepare myself mentally. I only told my parents. The Mister told me to do what I know how to do and stay calm: he trusted me, having known me for a long time. My teammates also made me feel their support. For my part, I tried to help the team secure these three points”.

A SPECIAL DEDICATION
“I dedicate this to the people who have always stood by me throughout my journey, believed in me and made all this possible. When I came off the pitch, I couldn’t hold back the tears. I hadn’t actually expected to cry, but I found myself surrounded by the affection of the fans and could no longer control my emotions. Today is one of the best days of my life”.>

GIVING EVERYTHING ON THE PITCH
“For me, today was one of those opportunities that come along only once in a lifetime. So, regardless of who I was up against, I knew I had to give everything. In Serie A, the intensity and quality are really high. It took me a little while to get into my rhythm. I was up against a tough opponent and it was a hard-fought duel. I did my best to keep him in check, and I think it went quite well”.

NEVER STOP BELIEVING
“I think I’ve improved a lot since the start of pre-season, thanks to the Mister, the staff and my teammates. They are always giving me advice, and the level of training is very high every day. Obviously, I know I still have a lot to improve. The Mister has always told me that to play in Serie A you don’t need to be tall, but you do need to be up to the task. Today I tried to do just that”.

THE STRENGTH OF THE TEAM
“I was sure we would get a result; there was never any fear, not even during the most difficult spell of the game. This really is a great group: the more experienced players immediately welcomed the younger ones, always giving us advice and helping us. Winning today was important to put a difficult spell behind us. The break will allow us to recharge our batteries, grow even closer as a group and continue building our winning mentality. The aim is always to do better”.