Andre Gomes has risked angering Barcelona fans by revealing that Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane is his footballing idol. While the Blaugrana’s new signing had complimentary words for Xavi and Iniesta, he also noted that Brazilian star Ronaldo, who played for both Barcelona and Real Madrid got him interested in football.
Surprisingly, Gomes made the comments to Barcelona’s official club channel Barca TV, revealing that ‘Il Fenomeno’ Ronaldo initally got him interested in football, saying “When I was younger I had someone that I admired a lot, Ronaldo 'El Fenonemno', who started here at Barcelona before moving to Inter. I loved the way he played when he started.”
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The Portuguese star has been Barcelona’s most expensive signing in this transfer window with an initial €35 million outlay that could rise to €70 million, a fee that seemed justifield after Gomes won the UEFA Euro 2016 tournament for a Ronaldo-led Portugal. The 23-year-old revealed Zidane’s impact on him, saying “Zidane was a very important figure. I used to see him as an example, as Iniesta is today and Xavi, who are two huge players.”
“He set an example in the same way as Iniesta now and Xavi not so long ago. They are two very important players. Now I have the chance to enjoy playing alongside at least one of them.”
Gomes is impressed with the quality of his teammates
Andre Gomes’ fee raised a few eyebrows, especially since Barcelona are well stocked in midfield, with Andres Iniesta and Ivan Rakitic a wonderful combination in midfield. Gomees realised he has a lot of work to do, saying “I can improve a lot. I promise hard work, humility and sacrifice, all to help the team. These are the most important things.”
Gomes once again reiterated that Barcelona’s style suits him, saying “The club's playing style is what is best for me. I'm really excited to play with my new team-mates. The forwards are the best there are and the very good players in midfield have a lot of experience.”
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Barcelona won a domestic double last season, although they missed out on the UEFA Champions League. Gomes is hoping that the Catalans go one better this season, saying “I want to end the season with us winning everything and celebrating trophies, that is the most important thing."
