Inter summer arrival Curtis Jones praised the team’s relentless fighting spirit and paid tribute to head coach Cristian Chivu following the Nerazzurri’s dramatic 3-2 comeback victory over Napoli at the San Siro on Saturday.
The English midfielder came on as a second-half substitute to help turn the tide after Inter fell 2-0 behind, making a immediate impression with his energy in the middle of the park.
Speaking to reporters in his post-match press conference, Jones reflected on his early adaptation to Italian football.
“It was a great match, we never gave up,” Jones said, via FCInterNews. “My integration is going well. The staff has been incredible, I feel good, and I’m really enjoying myself. I’m proud to be here. I want to play and prove to the team and staff that I’m up to the task, and I always want to give my maximum for our fans.”
Addressing his experience on the big stage, the former Liverpool midfielder added: “I just want to be part of the team and show everyone that I can help. Playing in the Premier League and Champions League has given me experience that I want to put at the team’s disposal. I hope to play against Madrid on Tuesday.”
Inter 3-2 Napoli – Jones hits back at ‘boring’ Serie A stereotype
Jones also pushed back on common stereotypes regarding the quality and style of football in Serie A compared to England:
“Some people say Serie A is boring and the Premier League isn’t, but you didn’t see that today. There are great coaches here and so much tactics. Today was a beautiful match with plenty of chances, and the coach made several tactical adjustments that helped us win. Italian teams never surrender, it was a real spectacle.”
Speaking afterwards to DAZN, Jones opened up on his relationship with Chivu and what convinced him to make the move to Milan:
“There’s a reason I came here: the phone calls we had, how the team plays, his tactical ideas, and how he works every single day,” Jones explained. “It’s the small things he says, things that might seem minor but end up having a massive impact. Plus, he has immense experience and played at the highest level himself.
“He’s managed the squad brilliantly. He’s ‘one of us,’ and to me, that’s fundamental. He’s passionate and deeply loves this game, just like I do. That’s why he’s leading a club like this, and he’s doing a fantastic job.”
To cap off his post-match duties, the midfielder offered a quick glimpse into his language lessons, signing off with a smiling “Molto bene, grazie!”
