Empoli midfielder Razvan Marin was exclusively interviewed by TLN TV to discuss his transfer to the club, Manager Paolo Zanetti, impressive teammates, signing for Ajax, his most memorable career moment to date, EURO 2024, and much more.
Empoli Transfer
Following Cagliari’s relegation from Serie A, Marin signed for Empoli on a season-long loan with an option to buy.
“I was happy because when I heard about their interest about me, I was happy because I know that Empoli is a good club like with really everything that you need to perform, you will find here. I was happy and I didn’t think twice when I had to choose…”
Manager Paolo Zanetti
40-year-old Zanetti was appointed as Empoli Manager in June 2022 following a two-year stint with Venezia. After 22 matches this season, he holds a record of 6W-8D-8L, averaging 1.18 points per match.
“He really wants to do something with the club, with the team and not just to fight for not relegating in second division. So I think that’s really important and then he wants to play a nice football or fancy football – I like that style of coaching…”
Impressive Empoli Players
There is a mix of youth and experienced players, in addition to diversity, in this Empoli squad. Marin identified a few of his teammates that have stood out to him so far.
“Baldanzi, Fazzini that they played, also Satriano he’s also young, but he’s on loan from Inter Milan. And then with experience, we have Mattia Destro that he’s an important player in Serie A. We have a good mix, I think between young players and experienced players, so I think that’s good for the team…”
Signing for Ajax
Marin was named as one of Romania’s best prospects before joining Ajax, who are known for having a terrific academy and youth structure. Despite other potential opportunities, there was never any doubt when they came calling.
“Ajax was directly my first choice. When I heard about Ajax, and also I was like 23 years old so I was still young, but there were already some other clubs interested in me. But Ajax was coming first. They really wanted me and I didn’t think more I just said to my agent also I want to go to Ajax…”
Most Memorable Career Moment to Date
A regular on International Duty, with 44 caps at the age of 26, Marin has one moment that he cherishes the most so far; however, that is hopefully soon to change.
“My first game with Romania. Because I also scored and I gave an assist. So I had my perfect debut in the National Team and I hope next year to start with the qualification for euros and then I can create even more memories with the national Team…”
Romania & EURO 2024
Romania have been placed in Group I – alongside Andorra, Belarus, Israel, Kosovo, and Switzerland – for the UEFA EURO 2024 Qualifiers. Marin and his teammates have high hopes about participating in the competition.
“Yes, I think so, I really believe it. I spoke to my teammates – everyone really believes in this qualification group and we need to make it. We need to get there in the end of qualifications – we need to be there…”