APPIANO GENTILE – There’s no stopping Inter’s run and no stopping Jonathan, who spoke to Silvia Vallini of Sky Sport Italia in an exclusive interview: "I’m doing well. I felt a bit stiff after the Udinese game but I’ll have to work even harder. I’m happy for the team and we’re going though a positive period."
Regarding his "rebirth" under coach Walter Mazzarri, the Brazilian full-back explained: "A footballer needs confidence and I need to be relaxed to do well. The coach spoke to me and gave me confidence, telling me, 'I'm counting on you and I know you have quality.' And I thank him for what he said. I’ve improved tactically and defensively, but the mental factor is the most important one. Now I’m more relaxed. Everyone is confident in me and I feel calmer. However, I still need to improve. I’m paying close attention to what the coaching staff tells me and know I have to be better physically in order to go 90 minutes with more lungs and tactical discipline."
From booing to applause, Jonathan also touched on this aspect of his Nerazzurri adventure: "Are the fans impatient? No, it’s normal. It wasn’t the first time and it won’t be the last. Opinions can change quickly in this sport, so it’s important to keep calm. Now we’re used to it, but it’s not easy at the beginning for someone who comes from a different country. I also used to talk about this with Alvarez, but we both knew what we were capable of."
Regarding the path that brought him to Inter: "I began playing football close to Belo Horizonte, where the club Cruzeiro is based. I played my first game as a professional at 18 years old. Then I was at Santos for 6 months before coming here. At first it wasn’t easy to be so far away from my family, and the pressure from the fans doesn’t help you either. 2006 was a tough year for me but everyone close to me, including my family and the club, all helped me get past it. I wish I’d had the same mindset I do now when I was 19, but unfortunately that’s not possible."
Does the return of captain Zanetti mean less space on the pitch for Jonathan? "The coach trusts in me. The captain has made so much history with this club, and he can play in several positions. When he’s at 100% the coach will find a role for him as well. Should I be the one to lose out then I’ll fight to earn my place again."
And last, Jonathan discussed Erick Thohir and the request for flank players: "It’s normal to look around when the transfer market opens. I’m relaxed. I know the qualities I bring, and the coach has confidence in me. President Moratti has always been a great president. He always comes to the dressing room to say hello to everyone. He’ll always be a part of Inter. I still don’t know Thohir, but I imagine he’ll meet with all of us when he comes. Whatever he does will be for the good of Inter, and we’re curious to meet him because he’s obviously an important man with many business interests. He’s here for the good of Inter and to make the team even more competitive."
