Celik: I chose Roma because I knew I would be happiest here

The Turkiye international, who completed his transfer from French side LOSC Lille last week, will join up with his new teammates on Tuesday, as the squad departs for Portugal for a pre-season training camp.

Before taking questions from journalists, Celik was welcomed to the Italian capital by the club’s General Manager, Tiago Pinto.

“I just want to say that we are really delighted to have brought Zeki here to Roma,” Pinto said.

“He’s still young, at just 25, yet has already gained a lot of experience both for the national team and at Lille – where he won the French league title and the Supercup.

“It was not a straightforward deal to do, but in the end the player’s desire was important. We are very pleased to have gained a player so motivated to represent our side – one who also fits with our desire to reinforce the squad and ensure we have more and more quality options.”

Here’s what Celik subsequently had to say…

What was it that convinced you to come to Roma? Where do you think your strengths lie – and where do you think you still have room to improve?

“Roma is a huge club. I was encouraged by the fact that they showed they really wanted me. For me it is a chance to take a step up in level, to raise the bar for myself. There’s not much that really needs to be said about the boss; we all know about the titles he has won and the things he still wants to win. For me, the chance to work with him is another big motivation.

“In terms of my playing style, I think I am very good defensively – as a defender. But I know that to keep progressing I can still get better both defensively and offensively.”

You are the fourth Turkish player to play for this club – what are your targets? And how do you feel about the prospect of playing in Serie A?

“I am very pleased to be the fourth Turkish player to play for Roma. I have always wanted to play in Serie A, I was eager to come here as soon as the opportunity presented itself. Now I am at a great club like Roma and I hope to contribute to the team’s successes.”

How much do you think you will need to adapt to playing wing-back rather than full-back, as you largely did last season? And another thing; you’ve already played at the Stadio Olimpico for Turkiye against Italy – what memories do you have of that?

“I’m happy playing in both a four-man defence and with five across the back. That’s a decision for the coach, we’ll work on that when I have the chance to get down to work and start training out on the pitch.

“As for the second part of your question, it’s true that I’ve already played at the Stadio Olimpico. It’s a big ground, imposing, with a great atmosphere. The game itself is not a particularly happy memory for me but the stadium was beautiful.”

Are there any specific players that inspired you? And is it true that you refused offers from other clubs in Serie A to come to Roma?

“Since I was a child I took inspiration from lots of different players, but I don’t think there is a specific one. But I have definitely tried to learn a little bit from all the different types of players I watched growing up.

“During negotiations there were other teams that wanted me – but I had decided I wanted to come here, because I know I would be happiest here.”

Do you think you can get better working for a coach like Jose Mourinho?

“Everyone knows the coach well, and so do I. I know his way of playing and also the rapport he builds with his players. It’s a big opportunity to get to work with him. I can definitely still get better.”

You won the French title with Lille – what do you think is the secret to winning a league title when you are the outsider? And have you had the chance to talk to Cengiz Under about what it is like to play for Roma?

“It’s true, in the French league we were able to achieve something impress – it was a big moment both for myself and for the team, in a country where Paris Saint-Germain usually dominate. It was a great feeling to finish ahead of such a big club.

“As for Roma, we need to take things step-by-step, giving everything we have to finish as high up the table as possible.

“When Roma first got in touch I spoke to Under and he spoke really warmly about the club. He encouraged me to make the move, saying that I absolutely should accept the opportunity. So if I am here it is also in part thanks to him.”

You already have a lot of international experience. Do you consider yourself to be the starting right-back for this team now? Are you ready to start the first game of the season?

“Every player who is part of the squad wants to be playing, wants to be starting, wants to be dirtying their shirt to help the team. That’s the target I have too.

“I know that last season Rick Karsdorp was the starter, that he played in almost every game, that he had a great season and even won a trophy at the end.

“So it will be a great competition between us and in the end we will see how it goes – hopefully the fans will be able to watch a side that has quality across the park, whoever is playing.”

"Voglio sudare la maglia per la squadra"

- Zeki Celik