Antwerp new signing Alhassan Yusuf opens up to SCORENigeria in this special interview.
The full interview –
SCORENGERIA: Alhassan, congratulations on your transfer to Royal Antwerp from IFK Goteborg.
ALHASSAN YUSUF: Thank you.
SCORENIGERIA: This transfer was long overdue after what you showed in Sweden. Do you already miss Sweden?
Of course, I spent three years there. I made friends who became family, so I miss them.
SCORENIGERIA: What have been your first impressions about your new club?
Everything has been going well. We have a new team from last season.
Belgium is one of the biggest shop windows in world football as there is a lot of attention on what happens here.
SCORENIGERIA: How does the football in Belgium compare to what you experienced in Sweden?
They are totally different. In Belgium, they are a lot more offensive and the tempo is a lot higher. The Swedish game is also physical, but there are a lot more top individual players in Belgium than Sweden and that means they have more depth in squads.
SCORENIGERIA: How do the cities of Antwerp and Goteborg also compare?
Goteborg is bigger in size, but Antwerp is a lot more cosmopolitan with many different cultures. There are many differences between the two cities.
SCORENIGERIA: Royal Antwerp, like you have already mentioned, are a completely new team from last season, when they finished third in the league and were beaten by Genk in the Belgium Cup Final. This season they aim to do even better. Is there pressure?
Yes, there’s pressure on everyone. We are all expected to perform to expectations. It’s normal.
It’s possible to improve on last season because we now have a lot of quality players.
SCORENIGERIA: What will be a great season for you in Belgium?
First, I hope to recover 100% (from a recent groin injury). I want also to play regularly and be among the top players in this team.
SCORENIGERIA: You have so far played several roles in the team since your arrival.
Yes, different games mean different tactics against different opponents. So far, I have played as defensive midfielder, attacking midfielder from the flank and in central midfield. I am flexible.
SCORENIGERIA: So far, you have made an assist, but what of the goals?
It really depends on how the coach plays me, but I believe there are possibilities for me to also score goals.
SCORENIGERIA: Have you been contacted by the Super Eagles?
Not yet, but I hope to play for my country. I will wait for my chance and make the most of it when it comes.
SCORENIGERIA: It’s always been your dream to play in the Premier League.
Yes, the dream is very much on course. I hope to play there sooner rather than later after I would have proved myself in Belgium.
I love the expansive football of Premier League clubs like Liverpool and Manchester City.
SCORENIGERIA: Thank you for your time.
It’s a pleasure.
