Radja Nainggolan has spoken out about the perceived bad boy attitude that he has among other topics in an interview with France Football.

“I can tell you that I am just a normal person and not a bad boy as many people label me. I can walk about in the worst neighbourhoods and live in a normal way. I can accept the favours that are given to the players, but it does not mean that I look for them. I shop at the supermarket, I can drink and smoke a cigarette with serenity. Even a footballer can smoke, even if they do not have a ‘normal’ job.”

The Belgian midfielder then spoke on his early years and what he feels.

“I am very proud of my origins even if they did not allow me to have an easy life. I feel originally from Antwerp while as a player I consider myself to be Italian from both a technical and tactical point of view. I have many qualities but I do not excel in any. My style allows me to give everything for my teammates.”

He concluded the interview by speaking on his family.

“In the early days at Piacenza I earned a thousand euros a month but for me and my family that was a lot. I try to ensure a good standard of living for all my family members. I am inspired by my mother. She was the most important person in my life, she had nothing but she gave me everything by making a lot of sacrifices. I have a strong bond with my twin sister, she is homosexual and happy and that is enough for me.”