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Genoa’s Goran Pandev reminisces about Mourinho: “He changed me.”

Andy Mattioli
I

Veteran Genoa attacker Goran Pandev was interviewed by Corriere dello Sport ahead of Sunday’s match-up with Roma and shared his thoughts on facing his former coach at Inter, Jose Mourinho.

“When I think of playing against Roma I think of Lazio and Mourinho.”

“Roma are not a regular opponent for me. Their fans always boo me, but now it also happens with those of Lazio. I managed to reach an agreement between two rival supporters.”

“Mourinho is the man who changed my perspectives. He phoned me immediately after my separation from Lazio, after five or six months of not playing.”

“He asked me to join Inter, the team that had brought me to Italy. It seemed like a dream to me. And then it went as it did.”

On being a protagonist in winning the treble with Inter:

“Incredible memories. Mourinho had the ability to attract all players, even those who stayed on the bench. And he always defended them.”

“He hardly ever used me in my preferred role and position. But when I saw Eto’o play as a full-back I thought about it: if someone like him adapts, I have to adapt too.”

“I must admit that his arrival at Roma surprised me. I know the city well, it’s not easy. But I’m sure the club with Mourinho will win again sooner or later. He is the right man in the right place. On one condition.”

“The club must follow his indications on the market and beyond. You have to give José carte blanche. It takes time, in all things. But if he accepted Roma it is because he wants to make history.”

“He phoned me after the end of Euro 2020 when the teammates paid me homage when I was replaced. But we hear each other from time to time on the Triplete chat. We are still very close ever since, a big family.”

On Shomurodov:

“Interesting player. Very good at attacking depth, fast, technically not bad. In my opinion with a bit more risk-taking he will do good things at Roma.”

Match Center

MatchDay 30
1 Apr 17:00
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