Italy Star Describes Inter Milan As ‘A Family’, Claims: ‘Thoughts Of Victory Motivate Me’ | OneFootball

Federico Dimarco has delivered a heartfelt and revealing portrait of his relationship with Inter Milan ahead of the Cagliari fixture, describing the club as his family, reflecting on the journey that brought him back to San Siro and sharing the values that have defined one of the most remarkable seasons of his career.

The Italy wing-back is the subject of the Inter vs Cagliari matchday programme interview, with quotes via FCInter1908.

It is a feature that feels fitting for a player who has become the emotional heartbeat of this squad, a lifelong Nerazzurri supporter who has lived every twist of this Scudetto race as a fan and a footballer simultaneously.

His words carry the weight of someone who understands exactly what this club means.

Indeed, not just professionally but personally.

On the origins of his love for football, Dimarco reached back to a memory that has clearly never left him.

“The main memories are linked to the small pitch that was in front of my father’s shop, I used to go and play there every day.

“There is no specific moment, but even now when I take to the field at San Siro I have flashes of that pitch. It is part of me and my story.”

His philosophy around success and failure is equally grounded.

“The thought of victory charges you up, winning always brings positive emotions. But you cannot always have success in football. From defeats, however, great victories can be born.

“This is also true on a personal level: sometimes you cannot give your best, but what counts is continuing to work to improve. This must always be the number one objective for anyone who wears the Inter shirt.”

Inter Milan Superstar Dimarco Credits Listening & Adaptability As His Greatest Tools

On what has driven his development as a player, Dimarco pointed to a quality that is perhaps underappreciated in modern football.

“There is no secret. I think I have always had a great desire to learn and listen. When needed, I have been able to adapt and change my training methods in every sense.

“That becomes possible as you grow and when in front of you there are great champions in your own dressing room who become examples.”

On what Inter means to him personally, his answer was the most telling of all.

“Inter is my family. I grew up here, then I moved away for a while, but in the end I came back and I have been here for many years now.

“I know this club well, myself and the teammates who have been here the longest always try to pass on to new arrivals what it means to play for Inter and wear the Nerazzurri shirt.”

His advice for young players was characteristically direct and honest.

“Never give up and always give everything you have. Giving advice is difficult, though, everyone has their own path. I can say that in difficult moments it is important to take responsibility and be self-critical. I have always wanted to make my own choices throughout my career.”