VIDEO | Talk with Demi Akarakiri

The young English midfielder born in 2007 Demi Akarakiri, among the new arrivals in the rossoblù home, spoke about himself in a video interview on the Club’s official channels. Here are his words:

EXPERIENCES WITH ARSENAL AND EVERTON
“I started playing football when I was very young, I think I was four years old. At first, of course, it was just for fun, but then it gradually became something more serious. I realized I could become a professional footballer at Arsenal. I started my journey there and stayed there for ten years, from the U9s to the U16s. Then I moved to Everton: I played with them from the U16s to the U18s, although by the second year I was mostly playing in the U21s. My experience in London with the Gunners? It was like being with family: I stayed there for a long time, I met so many people. I had great coaches; it was certainly a great experience. At Everton, I also found a family, a close-knit group. I made so many friends. And there, too, I found good and well-prepared managers. All the coaches I’ve had so far have helped me become the footballer I am today.”

THE COACH
“When the opportunity to come here to Cagliari arose, I jumped at it immediately. My agent is Sardinian; he told me about the people in Sardinia, the atmosphere, the warm climate, the team. He helped me better understand the place I was coming to. I spoke with the coach; he’s helping me settle in. He explained the type of player he appreciates, the position he wants me to play in. On the pitch, he’s very demanding; he tells me what he wants from me. He’ll help me grow.”

BEDING INTO THE GROUP
“The group welcomed me very well. I’m thinking of Obert: he was available right away; it’s easier when there are people who speak your language. These first few weeks have gone really well. Deiola, our captain, welcomed me very well and helped me settle into the team, even on the pitch: he’s very present, communicative, and demanding. I understand what they want from me, and that helps me adapt and make the leap from youth football to the first team.”

ORGANIZATION AND TACTICS
“Football in Italy? I’ve only just arrived, but what I noticed right away is that football here is much more organized and tactical. For example, there’s a lot of focus on set pieces. English football is starting to become like this too, but in my opinion, in Italy they’re even more focused on these aspects. For me, the biggest challenge will be adapting to the style of play, the differences in the way players play, as well as having to quickly learn Italian to communicate with my teammates.”

PASSION AND ROLE MODELS
“I’m a very passionate footballer, especially when I get into the swing of things. I think this will show on the pitch. A player I look up to? Paul Pogba. I think he’s the player who most inspires me; some have said we have some similarities. A message to the Rossoblu fans? I’m happy to be here and I can’t wait to get started with the official matches.”

VIDEO