Julián Malatini has only been in Bremen for a few days, but has already gathered a good impression of his new home. The Argentine has had to adapt to the snowy conditions in Bremen since his arrival. “It’s certainly a big transition to move from one climate zone to another,” the 22-year-old told the journalists in the mixed zone, smiling. “I don’t have any photos of myself in the snow as a child, so I have no memory of what it’s like – that’s why I’m really enjoying the weather here.”
All of a sudden, everything moved very quickly for the youngster. When Julián first found out that Werder were interested in him, he was in the process of preparing for the 2024 Olympic qualifiers with Argentina U23s. Just a few days later, the centre-back touched down on German soil for the first time to start his new chapter on the Weser. “It’s an opportunity that you can’t pass up,” shared SVW’s new signing. “I have the chance to explore a new area and to play in Europe. It was the right decision to come here, as it will allow me to develop further.”
With the help of retired Paraguay international Nelson Valdez, who is now acting as his mentor, the defender has been able to settle into his new surroundings. Malatini is fully aware of Valdez’s successful career, and is looking to follow in his footsteps over the coming years. The centre-back is also feeling very motivated for his first training session with the Green-Whites. “We had a brief chat about the team's style of play, and I think that I'll be able to fit in well with it. I would say that I’m an aggressive player, who was made to be a defender.”
The new signing could even make his debut for Werder in the upcoming clash against the current Bundesliga title holders in Munich. Malatini feels ready for the challenge, despite the fact that he is still in the early stages of getting to know his teammates.
????️ Malatini on his first few days in Bremen:
— SV Werder Bremen EN (@werderbremen_en) January 17, 2024
"I'm really happy to be here and to be a part of the team. It's a big step in my career. I want to make the most of this opportunity and do my bit for the team."#werderpic.twitter.com/hwnoOxkYzD
After all, the 22-year-old has taken a huge step in his career by moving thousands of kilometres away from home and his family. “I would definitely say that I’m someone who is open to new things,” Julián added, when asked how he feels about stepping out of his comfort zone. “I want to fit into the team’s style of play. My goal is to improve in every way and achieve something. If you want to call that an adventure, then I’m an adventurer.”
