Kawann Baptiste: "I will step onto the field and give my all"

The newcomer of "Metalist 1925" Kauan Baptista shared his first impressions of joining the Kharkiv club, talked about family support, the difference between Ukrainian and Brazilian football, and addressed the fans:

– How is your adaptation going, what are your first impressions of the move?

– The adaptation is going very well. The players, coaches, and staff have welcomed me wonderfully and give me confidence. I am very happy to have joined this club and can move forward in my profession to help the team.

– How did the option with "Metalist 1925" come about and why did you choose this club?

– When the offer from "Metalist 1925" came up, I was very happy. I talked to my parents, my agent, and realized that it would be an important step for my career, practically the realization of a dream. I came to Europe and have no doubts that it was the right choice.

– Perhaps you asked someone about the club?

– Yes, when I arrived here, I talked to Ari, because he is Brazilian. He helped me get to know the players, told me about the club's structure, about the team in general. He only spoke good things. Now we are here together, and I want to thank him for his support, because I am not alone here.

– What did your father say, as he is also involved in sports?

– My father really motivated me to come here. He played futsal in Italy, left Brazil at 19, and said that for me, it is the same opportunity as it was for him once. I listen to him very carefully because he is my idol. And now I am here.

– Overall, does your father play an important role in your career?

– Yes, he is the most important person since I started playing football. He always supports me, regardless of the distance. He and my mother give me strength every day so that I can be here and give my best for the club.

– You were born in Italy, have an Italian passport, but grew up in Brazil?

– Yes, I was born in Italy because my father was playing there at the time. When I was four years old, we returned to Brazil, where my family is from. So I spent all my childhood there.

– What is the biggest difference between Ukrainian and Brazilian football?

– Here, players are more focused, the intensity is higher. Football is tougher, you need to make decisions faster, otherwise, it will be difficult. That's the main difference.

– Which championship was your favorite from childhood? Who did you follow?

– I always dreamed big. I want to play in the Premier League, La Liga, or Serie A. These are the three championships that inspire me.

– What do you know about Ukrainian football, maybe about Brazilians who played here?

– I know a little thanks to acquaintances I played against before, who then moved to "Shakhtar". I followed the championship and saw that it is a strong league.

– What are your main qualities as a player?

– I think it's finishing attacks, good passes, field vision, set-piece execution. Technique is one of my strengths, and I want to use it to help the team.

– What about you as a person?

– I am a friendly person, I love helping others. I am very family-oriented, I love spending time with my family and my girlfriend. Happy moments with loved ones are important to me.

– Being called one of the biggest talents of "Cruzeiro", did it motivate you more or put pressure on you?

– I was always motivated by the support of the "Blue Nation", the fans of "Cruzeiro". They gave me extra energy to go out on the field and show my best. I believe I managed to perform well in the youth team and represent the club honorably.

– Are you ready for the pressure and attention after moving to Europe?

– It's a process of maturing, but I think it will be quick. I am ready for this challenge.

– Address the fans of "Metalist 1925".

– I will give everything for this club. I will go out on the field and do my best so that we achieve victories and titles. Forward!