Marcelino Carreazo: “I came to give everything for Apollon”

On the official website of the club, Apollon’s new signing Marcelino Carreazo shared his thoughts. The Colombian attacking midfielder spoke about his decision to continue his career in our team, the importance of Apollon’s offer, as well as his personal goals for the new season.

Marcelino, welcome to Apollon. How do you feel being in Cyprus and with our team?
Thank you very much for the warm welcome. I feel really good. From the very first moment everyone received me in the best possible way. I hope to live up to expectations and help the team. What made me say “yes”? I had teammates at CSKA who played here before, Pittas and Ilian, and they encouraged me. They spoke to me about a big club and a beautiful city.

Did you know things about Apollon and Cypriot football before coming here?
Yes, I did. I have a very good friend from Venezuela who plays in Cyprus, Chacón from AEK Larnaca, and he spoke very highly of the league. I wanted to experience it and enjoy it.

You mentioned you spoke with Pittas and Ilian before coming. What did they tell you and what was your first question to them?
Yes, I spoke with both. They told me that Apollon is a serious club, with many passionate supporters who are always behind the team. For me, that was the most important thing. I asked them about the city, because I wanted a very good environment for me and my family.

You joined Apollon in September. What made you wait until now to choose a team?
I wanted a serious offer. There were many talks with different clubs, but only Apollon had from the very beginning a stable, serious proposal. That’s what brought me here.

So the other teams only showed interest?
Yes, it was mostly interest from clubs in countries like Turkey, Russia, Brazil, Hungary, Mexico, USA. But I believe in God and His plans. Everything happens for a reason. God’s decision was for me to be here, because here I will succeed and have a better future.

How was your adaptation to European football?
It was very good. I joined CSKA Sofia and it was an important step in my career. I adapted easily, I played well, and it was an experience that left its mark on me. I will always be grateful to that club and that city, because my daughter was also born there. It’s a very special place for me.

Why didn’t you stay there?
That’s a difficult question because there I grew as a person and as a footballer. I left because that’s how God wanted it. Now I only look at the present, and the fact that I’m here with Apollon in Limassol.

During this period, were you training on your own?
Yes, I was training on my own in Colombia.

How long do you need to be ready to help the team?
I’m always ready. If the coach needs me, I’ll play. We always need to be prepared for the opportunity. However, I do need some time to regain full match fitness.

You are a player who can play in many positions. Where do you feel most comfortable?
At CSKA I played as a “6” and as an “8”, and I felt more comfortable there, while in the past I also played as a winger. Now I prefer the “8” position, I feel good in midfield.

How would you describe your playing style?
I am a player who plays with his heart. I like to help the team, to give everything on the pitch.

What do you consider your strongest point?
Playing with the ball. I like to keep possession and press high. I don’t want my team to sit back. My strong point is my aggressiveness, pressing the opponent all over the pitch.

What are your personal goals for this season?
Above all, to avoid injuries. That’s the most important thing for every player. With the team, our target is to be as high as possible in the league table.

What message would you like to send to the fans?
To support us at the stadium, they are the 12th man of the team. We have a very good squad and in every match I will give my best. I want them to see a new Marcelino, full of energy.

Why did you choose number 21?
Because it was the number I made my debut with. I even have it tattooed. It’s very special to me.