Official presentation of Gabriele Artistico and Vanja Vlahović

This afternoon, at the press room of the “Alberto Picco” stadium, Spezia officially introduced their new forwards Gabriele Artistico and Vanja Vlahović. Here are the words of the two new Eagles:

ARTISTICO
“Every season leaves something positive behind, and last year, my first in Serie B, taught me a lot. That experience will definitely help me in this new chapter. I’m very excited and can’t wait to contribute. I will always give my all, doing whatever the coach asks of me.

I always try to put my mindset into everything I do. I believe the hunger with which you approach both training and matches is fundamental. One of my main qualities is precisely the strength and hunger I bring to every game.

The first time I came here was a big emotion because I saw how passionate the fans are. After the final against Cremonese, I told my dad that I wanted to come to Spezia, a city that lives and breathes football, with an incredible crowd. I don’t need to tell you about the Club’s history; everyone knows it well, and I’m really happy to be here and can’t wait to play in front of our supporters.

My uncle? He had a very important career, but he’s a man of football. We always have honest and respectful talks because, as a former player, he understands the different phases of the season. For me, having him to turn to is a great fortune. Is it a heavy surname? For me, it’s a source of pride.

I had the chance to play here in the last round of the championship, in an incredible atmosphere, and honestly, there was never any doubt or second thoughts about coming here.

How far can we go? The important thing is always to give your best. The path will be built step by step, with shared goals and daily sacrifices. There’s no need for grand statements.

“Tiburón”? Back in Rome, they called me “Shark” when I was a kid because I was hyperactive in everything I did, and the nickname has stuck with me throughout my career.

When I entered the pitch at Picco, I exchanged a few words with the kid who came out with me. I always try to connect with the fans; a simple photo or autograph can make their day, and that makes me happy.

I’ve had the fortune to play in very passionate stadiums, but stepping on the pitch here really made me want to live this experience wearing the white jersey.

Did I know Vanja before? Personally no, but I knew him as a player, and his stats speak for themselves. We’ve already been out to dinner together. We both share a love for hard work and sacrifice, which is a very important common point, and on top of that, he’s a really good guy.”


VLAHOVIĆ
“I’m very happy to be here, in a strong team where I immediately found a good group. I come from a very important season in terms of goals, and I will do my best here, taking full advantage of this great opportunity.

I like working hard; Coach Modesto used to say I have a knack for scoring and attacking space well, but generally, I don’t like to talk much about myself, I prefer others to speak about me.

Pio? I’m happy for what he accomplished at Spezia, but every player is different, and it’s never right to make comparisons. I’m eager to do well; I know my qualities, and from the start, I wanted to come here. It didn’t take long to decide.

First of all, I want to thank the fans for welcoming me so warmly. I believe that together with them, we will do very well this year, and hopefully, at the end, we’ll all be happy.

The words exchanged with the Sporting Director and Coach D’Angelo were key to my decision. They explained how they see me in the team and made me feel that here I can feel at home, which is very important to me.

Of course, I hope to do even better than last year, but we have to focus on working and giving our best, the road is long, and we must stay focused.

I found a really united locker room; they made me feel at home right away. It’s clear that unity was one of last year’s secrets, and I believe this bond will keep growing day by day.

Atalanta fans upset about my transfer? I haven’t seen that, but if true, it’s a great honor because it means I left a good memory in two years, and that definitely gives me an extra boost of confidence.

Artistico? We got along right away, and he can also give me advice because he’s already played in Serie B. I think having this connection off the field is important for what we do on it as well.”