Welcome to St. Petersburg and congratulations on your move to Zenit! How do you feel?
Thanks a lot! I feel very positive and I'm glad to be at such a big club. This is a big step for me in professional football and I hope that this is only the beginning of my big journey in the game.
You’ve had your first day at the Gazprom Training Centre, how was your first session with the team?
It was very difficult, because I’ve haven’t trained for a long time after injury. The boys say that it was an easy workout, but for me, it was hard work
We heard Malcom call you Claudinho. Is that because of your hair or your playing ability?
I think it’s the hairstyle (smiles). It is too early to compare us as players.
We know you’re a central midfielder, but how would you describe yourself on the pitch?
I'm used to playing in the middle of the pitch, but I’ll play where the manager puts me. I like playing in the middle.
Have you selected your squad number yet?
Yes. Although I don't care what number I wear. I saw that 18 was free and I wore that at Chertanovo.
What would you like to say to the Zenit fans?
I would like to ask them to come to our matches, as I know people in St. Petersburg love football very much. When I was here previously the stands were packed and I would like them to come and support us.
