Luis Henrique talks on idol Ronaldo and Inter ambition | OneFootball

New Inter signing Luis Henrique has wasted no time making an impression at the club, bringing energy, versatility and a touch of Brazilian flair to Cristian Chivu’s side.

Speaking to the Gazzetta dello Sport the winger reflected on his early days at Inter, his adaptability on the pitch and the high standards he is ready to embrace.

Versatile Luis Henrique on varied roles

The Brazilian was deployed as a central midfielder against Monaco and Henrique recalled, “I did that at Marseille too with De Zerbi, the movements are different but I find myself comfortable. I’m available and I will go where the coach chooses and I try to learn: only seriousness and work count and, to help the team, I am ready to do absolutely anything.”

PORTO ALEGRE, BRAZIL – DECEMBER 6: Luis Henrique of Botafogo looks at the ball during the match between Internacional and Botafogo as part of Brasileirao 2023 at Beira-Rio Stadium on December 6, 2023 in Porto Alegre, Brazil. (Photo by Pedro H. Tesch/Getty Images)

This flexibility was tested in his first friendly, where Henrique saw clear signs of the squad’s spirit: “You can see this is a real team in every sense of the word. Having played in Ligue 1, I know how tough Monaco can be, but Inter came back with a man down. Not everyone can do that. Of course, the training is intense and you feel it in your legs but a strong team is being born.”

Italy, and Milan in particular, have made a strong impression on him. “One of the most beautiful countries in the world and one of the biggest clubs on the planet. In Italy you breathe history but Milan impressed me for its modernity and all the things to do: I want to discover it and make it feel more and more like home. For me, Inter also means Ronaldo ‘il Fenomeno’ – an idol, my favourite.”

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA – JUNE 30: Luis Henrique #11 of FC Internazionale Milano reacts during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 round of 16 match between FC Internazionale Milano and Fluminense FC at Bank of America Stadium on June 30, 2025 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)

Henrique talks Chivu and Dumfries challenge

Under the guidance of new head coach Cristian Chivu, Henrique believes he is in capable hands, “For me it is very important to have a coach like him. He has the soul of a player, so he understands what you need and what you feel inside. He gives me confidence and freedom to dribble: he wants me to play my football, to take risks, encourages me to try 1-on-1s. I’m learning a lot tactically, here positioning is really important but I think I can bring Brazilian joy, dribbling and a bit of audacity.”

Competition for a starting spot will be fierce, particularly on the right but Henrique seems up for the challenge: “It’s the challenge I have been looking for at this stage of my career and I say that with the utmost admiration for Denzel. I’ve always dreamed of playing in a big team with great players, and that motivates me to find my space, with respect for everyone. Healthy competition helps, the greats teach you that.”