Alberto Costa has quickly become one of Juventus’ brightest revelations during their campaign in the United States at the Club World Cup. The Portuguese full-back, who joined the club in the January transfer window, has started both matches against Al-Ain and Wydad Casablanca, impressing fans and coaches alike. In an interview with La Stampa (as quoted by IlBianconero) , Costa opened up about his journey, adaptation, and ambitions with the Bianconeri.
Growth and Opportunity
“In recent times, I have had more opportunities and I worked very hard to be ready when they came,” Costa explained. “Now I just have to continue like this, with the same consistency.”
Early Months at Juventus
Reflecting on his initial period at the club, Costa admitted, “At the beginning, I wasn’t playing, but everyone here supported me, helping me to be ready when my moment arrived. In particular, Conceicao, Douglas Luiz, and Bremer helped me with the language, but I can count on everyone in this group.”
Adapting to Life in Italy
“I’m studying Italian, I understand it well but speaking it is more difficult. I still need a bit more time, but with Tudor we also communicate in English,” he said. On settling in Turin, Costa added, “I’m doing well, I live with my girlfriend, and the city is beautiful.”
From Motta to Tudor
When asked about his limited playing time under the previous coach, Costa was candid: “I don’t know why I wasn’t playing before, those were just the coach’s choices. With every coach, you work to do your best. Tudor asks for different things on the field and I have adapted to his ideas.”
His Role and Inspirations
“For me, the best thing is simply to play,” Costa stated. He also spoke about his idols: “There are many players who have worn the Juventus shirt that I look up to, but if I have to name one, I think of Dani Alves. And of course, Cristiano Ronaldo. Cancelo? He is a model, but we have different characteristics.”
The Cristiano Ronaldo Dream
Asked if he had spoken with CR7, Costa laughed: “Have we spoken? I wish… No, he hasn’t called me. But I hope to keep doing well with Juve so I can reach the national team, it’s a dream and a goal.”
Lessons from Juventus
“I’ve learned to always play to win. And to raise the level on every occasion,” Costa shared.
The Juventus Offer
“I had no doubts, I immediately told my agent: let’s go!”
Club World Cup Ambitions
When asked about Juventus’ chances in the tournament, Costa was confident: “Yes, we can win it. We’ve played two great matches and we are a great team. In tournaments like these, anything can happen, you just have to go out and win game after game.”
Facing Top Opponents
Costa remains unfazed by the prospect of facing giants like Real Madrid: “No, I don’t think about those things. Whoever we face, we will play to win.”
