Speaking exclusively to Calciomercato, Emerson Palmieri reflected openly on his departure from West Ham United, his growth in English football, and his determination to reclaim a place in the Italy squad.
The Italy international joined Marseille from the Hammers late in the summer transfer window.
Speaking about his exit, he revealed that he once feared that the move will fall through due to West Hamโs insistence.
He said: โTwo weeks earlier, I had already given De Zerbi the OK; the clubs needed to reach an agreement. I was a little nervous because I was afraid they wouldnโt reach an agreement, but the manager and Benatia wanted me so much that they waited until the very end.โ
Adding more details, he said: โI had this fear, because Iโm a man of my word, but it wasnโt just up to me. Before the transfer, I spent 50 days training alone. West Ham wouldnโt lower their demands, but I kept calm because I knew Marseille were there.โ
The left-back expressed his gratitude for his brother for having helped during this period of tension.
โMy brotherโs presence; he came from Brazil to London to be with me. And when Marseille came forward, he immediately advised me to accept because it would be a unique experience.โ
Emerson also spoke about Roberto de Zerbi and had big praise for him.
A special person. Iโve had many coaches in my career, but Iโve never met anyone like him. He brings a passion Iโve never seen on the pitch.โ
Emerson has previously plied his trade with Lyon and would be hoping he impresses enough to earn a recall to the Italian national side.
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Kaustubh Pandey I GIFN
