Emerson: Roma will have a new warrior

In an exclusive interview with Roma TV, the young Brazilian spoke about his excitement at joining Roma and revealed the former Giallorossi player he’s always looked up to…

Welcome to Roma. How do you feel now your transfer has been completed?
"Firstly I'd like to thank everyone for the warm welcome. I am so happy. I've never experienced anything like it before. I hope to be able to help out my new team-mates very soon."

When did you first hear that Roma were interested in you?
"I found out that Roma were interested in me five or six days ago. It was great to hear and I wanted everything to be tied up as soon as possible. That's how it turned out and now I'm just pleased I'm here."

How much do you know about Rome and AS Roma?
"Everyone knows how beautiful the city of Rome is. I saw the main tourist attractions when I came here a while ago for a few days with my family. As for the team, they're hungry for success and always have fantastic players, either real-life legends like Francesco Totti or Daniele De Rossi or past heroes like Cafu and Emerson. I think Roma are a fantastic team."

You mentioned Cafu, one of the numerous Brazilians to have pulled on the Roma jersey. Is he a particular hero of yours?
"Definitely. He was a full-back like me, although he played on the right and I'm on the left. I've always looked up to him as a player and a person. Cafu has always been a role model for me."

What areas of your game do you think you can improve?
"Every footballer can improve on something. I'm left-footed, but I need to work on my right. My crossing could also get better. In football, you need to work hard every day striving to get better."

What are your individual and team goals for the season?
"I've come to help the squad. Obviously everybody wants to play, but I have a lot of respect for the players with whom I'll be competing for places. Ultimately, AS Roma is what matters and I'm here to help the Giallorossi in any way I can."

Finally, do you have a message for the Roma fans?
"The only thing I want to say is that Roma will have one more warrior on the pitch and I will fight for every minute of every match I play in. And there's something else as well: FORZA ROMA!"

Tune into Roma TV on Tuesday to watch the full interview.