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Mario Mitaj: The dream is Barcelona, Silvinho sees himself in me, the European feels unique
2024-07-05 15:15:53 / SPORT
He dreams of playing for Barcelona one day. It is not known if Silvinho has influenced, but Mario Mitaj says that the Brazilian coach sees himself in him, given that he has played in the same role. In a long interview for "gazzeta.gr", the left defender tells everything, the coach's advice, the European experience, what Albania could do more, as well as the players who impressed him. Mitaj thinks that Spain is the favorite, while also talking about the Albanian championship. There can be no lack of experience at AEK, where he took the first steps and 10-hour discussions in an office, before making the decision to leave for Russia. Now ready for a new adventure, Mario is clear about what he wants in the future.
How did you feel when you learned that you will be in the "Euro 2024" mission with the Albanian National Team?
It was the first time the coach announced the calls in a press conference. I felt very proud and happy that at the age of 20 I can represent my country in such an event. I think it's something you can only experience once in a lifetime. Especially when you are a member of a country that doesn't often go to such tournaments. I felt a great relief when I saw my name.
What was the secret of Silvinho's success?
I think that from the moment he took over the National Team, what he tried to do was to keep the dressing room good, that is, the atmosphere between us. This was the secret for me and it also came out on the field. That's why with teams like the Czech Republic and Poland we managed and got big wins in the qualifiers.
The Albanian national team was in one of the most difficult groups in "Euro", how did you feel in front of players of this caliber?
In general, I'm never nervous when I play, from the moment I step on the field I won't be nervous. I felt happy to play with Italy, I couldn't wait to enter the pitch, to see players I used to see on television. I wanted to face them and see the difference in level I could have with them.
Have there been any players who have stood out to you in the matches you have played?
I really liked Kieza, Jamal, who for his age is really outstanding. I really liked Kovacic as a player.
Do you think that Albania could do better in the European?
If you exclude the first game against Italy, especially the first half which was an adjustment, we had a very good performance overall. We could win with Croatia. With Spain, we fought until the end... I think that even in a percentage, 10%, we had a chance to go to the next stage.
How does the experience in "Euro" leave you?
I think it's the beginning of something bigger.
Which team is the favorite to win the tournament?
Spain and Portugal.
Which national team has disappointed?
England, because with all those quality players it has, it should have dominated, but something like this has not been seen.
Have you ever thought about competing in the Greek national team?
In the national age groups, I also went to the national team of Greece and Albania. When I signed my first contract with AEK they cleared everything for me, I knew I wanted to play for Albania.
What impressed you in Europe?
We were all speechless when we warmed up against Italy. We were shooting videos, the atmosphere was really incredible. The organization was also perfect, down to the smallest detail. There was no mistake.
Which of the three games was the hardest?
The game against Italy was the most difficult because we scored very quickly and then fell behind. It was like we lost ourselves towards the end of the first half until we found it again in the second. I didn't touch the ball much in the first half and I was saying why not play now? However, we lost so it was the most difficult game.
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