Inter’s goalkeeper Yann Sommer recently shared some interesting reflections with “La Gazzetta dello Sport” about his new teammate at Inter, Josep Martinez, and how his personal journey continues to evolve, despite his age and the experience he has already gained.
A teammate with great potential
During the interview, Sommer spoke about Josep Martinez, the new addition, highlighting his technical qualities and great potential. “We have a good relationship,” he said, adding: “He was in Germany, at Leipzig, a few years ago, but unfortunately, he didn’t learn German. He’s a great guy and a great goalkeeper with tremendous potential. Plus, he’s completely different from me—taller and bigger: it’s good for Inter to have such diverse options even in our position.”
These words reveal not only Sommer’s appreciation for his teammate, but also the importance of having a squad with reliable players, especially in a crucial role like that of the goalkeeper. The ability to alternate goalkeepers could be a valuable asset for Inter as they prepare for an intense season ahead.
The continuous growth: the meticulous italian approach
Despite a long career, the Nerazzurri goalkeeper stated that he is still improving, thanks largely to Italian coaches. “I’ve developed even more in build-up play,” the Swiss goalkeeper revealed. “I have two excellent trainers, and we work specifically on the Italian style, from positioning to goal coverage, down to the small details that make the difference.”
This meticulous and detailed approach is characteristic of the Italian school of goalkeeping, home to legends like Gianluigi Buffon. And it is Buffon whom Sommer acknowledges as his role model: “Buffon was more than just positioning and goal coverage. He was a complete player: character, speed, charisma. I loved watching him and drawing inspiration from him.” A tribute to one of the greatest of all time, who has influenced generations of goalkeepers.
Sommer underrated? Better to focus on performance
When discussing the best goalkeepers around, Sommer’s name rarely appears among the top names on the list. But when asked if the experts might underrate him a little, the Swiss goalkeeper doesn’t seem too concerned: “Maybe, I don’t know, but it’s better not to dwell on it because you can’t change it. I’m used to focusing on what I can change: my performance, my level.”
The philosophy is clear: focus on what you can control. Despite not always receiving the recognition he deserves, the Inter goalkeeper continues to work on improving himself, concentrating on his role and the goal of being the best possible goalkeeper for his team. And his nomination for the prestigious Yashin Trophy confirms that his efforts have been recognized on an international level.
Source: La Gazzetta dello Sport
