Antonio Tikvic is only 19 but when he speaks it seems as if he’s been around the block many times. The youngster was interviewed for the first by TV12 and we got to find out more about Tikvic, the player and person. Here are some of the highlights:
“It was a long and difficult process joining Udinese but I’m so glad I’m here now. I see this as a huge opportunity. I want to repay the faith that the club have in me. I can’t wait to get playing.
“Having been born in Hamburg to Croatian parents I grew up in a multicultural environment. I’m great at integrating with people from all around the world. I’ve got friends from all over and I had a wonderful childhood.
“I started out as a forward but as the years went on and I grew up I was moved back, first to midfield then into defence.
“I played for St. Pauli and Hamburg, the two biggest teams in my city. It was great to play for them – I enjoyed every moment. I then spent time at Eintracht Frankfurt’s academy before moving on to Bayern Munich. I’m so grateful to the people at that club – I learned so much every day there. I was able to spend time with Martin Demichelis, one of the best defenders of his era. I picked up many things from him, such as closing down quickly and getting stuck in to the opposition. He’s also a top person.
“I feel ready for Serie A. I can’t wait to get a chance to show what I’m made of. The quality of the defenders in Serie A is fantastic. That’s one of the reasons why I decided to come to Italy.
“I can’t wait to pit my wits against the likes of Dusan Vlahovic, Moise Kean, Rafael Leao, Lautaro Martinez, Paulo Dybala and Romelu Lukaku. It’s a top league.
“When I was a child I was a big fan of Sergio Ramos and Zlatan Ibrahimovic. While the latter didn’t play in my position I was a great admirer of his mentality.
“I see myself as a tactically-astute player. I’m good in possession and I’ve got a great left foot. Despite my height I’ve got good ball skills and I’m quick.
“I got a great welcome at the club, especially from Jaka Bijol, Lazar Samardzic, Sandi Lovric and Kingsley Ehizibue. I’ve also spent a lot of time with Maduka Okoye, who like me was born in Germany.
“I’m a massive fan of Italy and its culture. It’s fantastic to be here. I feel at home in Udine. It’s a beautiful place and I like how Italian cities are structure because they’re similar to Croatia. Then there’s the food – pasta is my favourite dish. I try something new every day.”