Pedro: 'Ribery videogame to teammate'

By Football Italia staff

New Fiorentina striker Pedro Guilherme is “ready to play” against Juventus on Saturday and reveals he “used to play as Franck Ribery on videogames.”

The 22-year-old was snapped up from Fluminense for a reported €11m plus bonuses and 20 per cent of a future transfer fee.

“It was a long negotiation and I want to thank everyone now that I am at a great club like Fiorentina,” he said in a Press conference.

“I am fit to play against Juventus this weekend and have recovered from a slight injury, so the choice is up to the Coach. The striker I try to base myself on is Zlatan Ibrahimovic, as he has great quality and technique. The Number 9 at Fiorentina was worn by an idol like Gabriel Batistuta, so I’d love to follow in his footsteps.

“When my agents told me that Fiorentina were interested, it immediately excited me, considering the tradition of the club. I’ve just arrived, but I feel ready and was given a warm welcome.

“It’s going to be amazing to play alongside Ribery, because his career speaks for him. It’s like a dream come true, as I always used to choose him when playing videogames.

“This Fiorentina was built to win and it’ll be a pleasure for all of us. I am a forward who likes to move around a lot to create space for my teammates, too.”

Pedro’s agent said there were advanced negotiations with Real Madrid before he chose the Stadio Artemio Franchi.

“It’s true there were talks, but the deal wasn’t closed because I was injured at the time. I am very happy to be at Fiorentina, an important step in my career. My aim is to get back into the Brazil squad and Italian football is a huge opportunity to help me improve as a player.”

Image credit: @acffiorentina Twitter

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