Today was the official unveiling of our latest signing Damian Pizarro, a 19-year-old Chilean talent. The youngster appeared alongside managing director Franco Collavino, technical director Gianluca Nani and former Udinese player Gokhan Inler. Here’s what those present had to say:
Franco Collavino, managing director:
"First of all I’d like to thank all of the journalists who came here today. It’s really important of us to have a strong relationship with the media.
"Damian Pizarro is a talent we’ve managed to bring in and we’re delighted to unveil him. He’s a characteristic Udinese signing, 19 years old, a Chilean forward and one of the most talented youngsters in South America. He’s already featured for the Chilean national team and while our hopes are high for him we’re not putting too much pressure on the boy – we want to give him time to bed in and develop. I hope he has the same impact his compatriots had at the club."
Gianluca Nani, technical director:
"Damian is a great talent – we aim on sourcing the best. He’s got all of the time in the world to develop and I’m convinced that he’ll do really well. In order to sign Pizarro we had to make an early move – nowadays it’s crucial to be ahead of the curve."
Gokhan Inler, former Udinese player:
"From the first day I saw Pizarro I felt the same positive aura Alexis Sanchez and Mauricio Isla had. He’s a great talent and I’m sure that he’ll have a top season."
Damian Pizarro:
"I’m delighted to join Udinese. I’ve been given a great welcome by everyone. I’m really grateful for the love shown to me by the people who follow me every day from Chile. I believe in myself and I’m convinced that I can do well. I’ve always played as a centre forward – my strengths are my power and physique. I’m carrying a small injury but I’ll start work with the team in a few weeks.
"The coach has left a great impression on me and I was given a lovely welcome by all of the players. Arturo Vidal was a great help while I was still at former club Colo Colo – he told me about Serie A, saying that it’s really hard and demanding, but that I could adapt and do well. I’ve played many games in South America, including in some big stadiums, and the pressure didn’t get to me. I’ve had my dream come true and now I just want to play.
"As for role models, I love Ivan Zamorano and also Luis Suarez. As for Alexis Sanchez, I think that he’s a top player and an idol of mine and a Chilean icon – it would be awesome if he were to come here.
"Udinese are a well-organised club, used to working with talented players and youngsters, so I’m convinced that I’ll flourish here."