Spezia midfielder Kevin Agudelo was interviewed by Serie A to speak about Managers Thiago Motta and Leonardo Semplici, his relationship with fellow Colombian Luis Muriel, and his dream of playing for his nation.
Former Manager Thiago Motta
Agudelo’s Serie A adventure started at Genoa, under Thiago Motta’s watchful eye. Two years later, he was reunited with the coach at Spezia – when Motta again put his faith in the Colombian midfielder.
“He was really important because when I came to Genoa I was going through a tough time. I’d joined the club only about three months earlier and I hadn’t seen a lot of game time. When Thiago came in he saw something in me right from the get-go and realised that I could be an asset. I was then lucky enough to coincide with him here in Spezia and we had a great season. That season was amazing, I was able to score several important goals against some big teams. It was a big season for me.”
Current Manager Leonardo Semplici
Leonardo Semplici has been in the Eagles’ dugout since February and he’s been working on improving his team’s confidence as they fight to avoid relegation.
“In many ways, they’re totally different people. However, I think that ever since the coach came in he’s tried to instil us with the mentality that we’re much better than we think we are. He has total belief in the squad, me included. He’s always saying to me that I’m a much better player than I’ve shown so far.”
Luis Muriel & Colombia National Team
Agudelo is one of many Colombian players who’ve brought their charismatic style to Serie A.
“I’ve got five of Muriel’s shirts at home. I love that I’ve got them. I collect them because they’re like a treasure to me and for me and many Colombians, these players defined an era in the game. It’s true that sometimes I’ll send Muriel a message and he’ll always get back to me. I’d love to play with them for the national team but they’ll continue being the leading lights before I’m given my chance.”