Brignoli: “My priority is Panathinaikos, the government’s decision to close it is right”

The measures taken by the government to combat violence in sports aroused the interest of Italian journalists, who asked Alberto Brignoli for his opinion.

The Italian Panathinaikos goalkeeper said in an interview with Tuttomercato: “It is a drastic measure that provokes reactions. But I can understand it. After incidents at a volleyball game, the police refused to do their duty. The police didn’t feel safe.”.

Then he said: “Undoubtedly it causes damage in football. But from a human perspective, I think it is the right decision, because incidents have happened and are happening that unfortunately disrupt people’s normality. The state is trying to suppress the problem using strict methods, and not just in football.

Two months ago, Panathinaikos played against Olympiakos and a spectator threw a firecracker and my teammate Juancar ended up in the hospital. Recently, during Volos – Olympiacos Piraeus, fans stormed the pitch and the referee was threatened. Last weekend the game didn’t take place because the referees were absent because they didn’t feel safe.”

Regarding his decision to come to our country, he emphasized: “The sign of my presence is positive. It is an experience that helped me develop my culture and if I could go back in time, I would have made this decision earlier. We often have the impression that everything is perfect in Italy and that we only have one way to achieve our goals.

However, moving abroad can prove extremely beneficial if you choose the right team. I took part in European competitions, I won the Greek Cup, we are in first place and winning titles. If I had lived in Italy, I would have denied myself these distinctions. To play in the Europa League you have to get a lot better, it’s a more competitive competition.”

Finally, he responded to a question about his contract with Panathinaikos: “I enjoy living in Athens, it is a beautiful city with culture and a beautiful coast. My priority is Panathinaikos, I want to develop further with their jersey. Right now I’m focused on my commitments, June 30, 2024. It’s far away.”