Inter Milan & Poland EURO 2024 Star Reaveals Childhood Idols & Season Expectations: “Love Tennis & Roger Federer, Great Hopes For This Season” | OneFootball

Inter Milan midfielder Piot Zielinski had an extensive interview with the club’s official YouTube channel, addressing numerous exciting topics, including his admiration for Roger Federer.

Created by Inter Milan’s YouTube channel and powered by Betsson Sport, the “Welcome Home” series hosted the Poland international, who spoke of his childhood idols and revealed his passion for tennis.

“I am truly passionate about this sport,” Zielinski admitted.

He named Swiss tennis icon Roger Federer as his sports idol.

“When he played, he was a great inspiration to me, especially for his incredible class.”

The new Inter playmaker also admires the 2024 Olympic Games gold medal winner, Novak Djokovic, and serial Roland-Garros champion Rafael Nadal.

Piotr Zielinski also discussed his expectations for the upcoming season. He bids to help Inter defend the Scudetto in his first year at Giuseppe Meazza.

“I have high expectations and hope to quickly integrate into the team and become an integral part of it. I hope to contribute to continuing to bring victories to the club.”

The 30-year-old highlighted the importance of a healthy atmosphere in the dressing room.

“The locker room is part of our job. I still need to get to know my new teammates better. But I’ve heard this group is fantastic and very close-knit; I’m sure I will fit in quickly.”

Inter Milan Midfielder Opens Up On His Childhood Idols & Credits His Family For Becoming An Athlete

Zielinski grew up watching former Czech Republic international Tomas Rosicky, but he wasn’t his only inspiration.

He was looking up to the likes of Andres Iniesta, Zinedine Zidane, and Ronaldinho as well.

But his passion for the game originates from his family.

“Sport is a family passion,” Zielinski, who embarked on his footballing adventure at six, said.

“I have two older brothers, and my dad used to take me to the field with them when I was little. I owe him a lot and hope he is proud of what I have achieved.”

Zielinski hailed his mother’s influence on his playing style, crediting her for becoming ambidextrous.

“During a tournament, for a penalty, I asked her if she thought I could use my left foot, and she encouraged me to do so,” the new Inter star continued.

“After scoring a goal, I started training with both feet.”

Zielinski thanked his former coaches for helping him become the player he is today.

“I think every coach I’ve met in my career has been able to teach me something.”

“They encouraged me to believe in myself, to work hard, and to give my best for myself and my team.”

Before joining Napoli, the Inter star got familiar with Italian football at Udinese. It was a pivotal move in his playing career.

“It was a big change for me, but the club helped me a lot. Believe it or not, once a month they would get my mother a plane ticket to Italy so that my family could be with me.”

“I have wonderful memories of my three years in Udine.”