Roger Ibanez begins his international career with Brazil following a very strong opening to the season with Jose Mourinho’s Roma. The 23-year-old recently earned his first national team call-up and was introduced in a press conference with Brazil boss Tite earlier today.
Ibanez, among other things, paid tribute to Mourinho for helping him achieve this personal milestone.
“My first day here just fills me with an inexplicable feeling, training with such strong players is really special,” said the Roma defender.
“When I first started in Italy I played with Atalanta which proved to be an important experience where I learned a lot.”
“In addition, Mourinho’s advice has helped me a lot and he’s one of the reasons I’m here today,” Ibanez added.
“I played a few games at Roma both as a right and left-back, but obviously it is a different role from the offensive full-back we’re used to.”
“The only thing I have to do is listen to what the coach asks me and if he needs me in that position I will adapt.”