Vainqueur: Here to work hard and help the team win

The French midfielder stressed that he will work hard to help the team to win trophies. He also revealed he is pleased to have moved to a wonderful city like Rome and proud to play in a league that he followed closely as a child.

Welcome to Italy. How does it feel to sign for Roma?
“I’m very proud and I’m above all delighted. It’s incredible for me to sign for a club like Roma because when I was a kid I always used to watch Italian football and Roma were always one of Italy’s biggest clubs. So I’m very proud to have moved here.”

When did you know the club wanted to sign you?
“I found out three weeks ago. My agent spoke to me about it. Then there was a series of discussions about my contract with the club and myself to reach an agreement. But, as soon as I knew Roma were interested in me, I agreed, I didn’t hesitate at all. And that’s why I’m here.”

How much do you know about AS Roma?
“I think they’re one of Italy’s biggest clubs and I know they have some great players, like Francesco Totti and De Rossi. The fans are fantastic and the stadium is massive. That’s what we know about Roma.”

You've played in the French, Belgian and Russian leagues. How much are you looking forward to experiencing Serie A?
“Of course. I think Serie A is one of the best leagues in the world. It was a step I needed to make and I’m very pleased to be here in Serie A.”

For fans who haven’t seen you play, can you describe your playing style?
“I’m a defensive midfielder and I like to win the ball back when opponents have it to feet, then accelerate away or give it to my team-mates. That’s the most important thing I think.”

What do you think are the biggest strengths of your game?
“I like to win tackles, as I’ve said. I’ve got quite an English box-to-box style and I’m quite technical too.”

What aspects of your game do you think you can still improve?
“You can always improve and I can progress in basically every area of my play. I’m here to work hard and I try to work as much as I can. I think I need to work on when I’m in on goal and become more clinical.”

Have you spoken to Rudi Garcia and Walter Sabatini about what they expect from you this season?
“Yes, I’ve spoken to the coach and the management. I’m here to work and show that I can become a part of this squad and above all play in Serie A. I’m above all here to work hard and show the coach I’m here to play as well. And quite simply that I can help the team to win games.”

How much are you looking forward to playing alongside the likes of Radja Nainggolan and Daniele De Rossi in the Roma midfield?
“It’s a dream come true to play alongside great players like them. They’re top players and there’s a lot I can learn from them. Yes, I’m looking forward to playing alongside them.”

Roma have been very active in the transfer window – bringing in the likes of Dzeko, Salah and Lucas Digne. How strong do you think the squad is now?
“I think Roma have got a very strong squad. There are some great players and, as you said, Roma have strengthened this year. I believe with the squad we have, we can win a trophy or two. I think we can go a long way.”

Roma will begin their Champions League campaign against Barcelona. Is this a competition that excites you?
“The Champions League is a competition that any footballer would want to play in. Roma signed me this summer and I’m lucky enough to be able to play in it. So of course I’m very excited to be able to play in it against teams like Barcelona, the biggest clubs in the world.”

What are your personal targets for the season?

“My personal targets are to work hard and show the coach and fans that I can help the team. Then it’s down to the coach to decide what I have to do but my main aim is to be there, work hard, settle into the side and above all help the team to win as much as possible. “

What do you hope to achieve with your new team?
“My aims with the team are to win titles, to win the Scudetto, and go as far as we can in the Champions League.”

Finally, do you have a message for Roma fans?
“I want to tell the Roma ‘tifosi’ that I’m very proud to wear the Roma jersey and to be in the wonderful city of Rome. And I want to tell them that I’m here to help the team and give 100% to help the team to go as far as possible.”