The Italian Juri Cisotti (32 years old) told Gazeta Sporturilor how the transition from Oțelul to FCSB was, which happened in January 2025.
Coming to Oțelul in 2021, when the team was in League 3, Cisotti quickly stood out in Romanian football, and in January he made the move to FCSB. Named the Foreign Footballer of the Year in the GSP Superlatives, the midfielder gave an interview in which he talked about how it was to move to the Romanian champion and adapt to the demands and pressure from the red-blue formation.
Juri Cisotti: “When a big club like FCSB calls you, you have to accept the challenge”
– A year ago you made the move from Oțelul to FCSB. How was that period in which the transfer was being discussed?
– It was an intense period. It's not easy when you move in the winter. You have to adapt quickly to the new team and the rhythm. But I found a very nice group, a well organized club and a good team with valuable players.
– Knowing that there is more pressure at FCSB, did you have any hesitation?
– No, no. After 3 years at Oțelul I needed a new challenge. And when a big club calls you, it's normal to accept the challenge.
– How was the transition from a Steel level team to FCSB, the champion aiming for a new title? What impacted you the most?
– It is normal for the difference to be large. There is more pressure here, you also play in Europe. But Oțelul was also under pressure. But it was a different situation. However, the pressure must motivate us to do a good job.
– When you came, everyone was talking about you taking the place of Olaru, who was injured. Was it extra pressure for you?
– I don't think so. Every player coming in feels the pressure. It's a big club, you have to win trophies. But pressure helps.
– How was the debut at FCSB?
– The debut was… I didn't play a very good match, but that's normal. It was not a simple change and it took some time. We went from a mid-table team to one that wants to win the title. There are different styles, different rhythm. It wasn't that simple.
– Slowly you adapted to the pace at FCSB. And you became one of the best players in the batch and in the first division. You also became a favorite of the boss, who praised you constantly. Did that matter to you?
– I am happy when my work is appreciated. But I don't want to relax. Praise and criticism are part of this sport and I have to stay focused.
– Have you ever spoken to Becali?
– I saw him now at a gala, but we never talked.
– Over the course of the year, you played in closing, attacking midfielder and in the lane. What position do you feel best in?
– I think inter or in the gang. But it doesn't matter. I want to help the team get a good result. That's the most important thing.
– How would you describe your game?
– I think I am a useful player for the team. I like to do work, run and win duels. If I have a good day, maybe I can score a goal or an assist. I think intelligence in the game and the fact that I put in a lot of effort are my strengths.
– You talk about being useful to the team, about running and winning duels, while many want to stand out, be the star of their team.
– Yes, but I think that if the team wins, everyone stands out. And the most important thing is for the team to win.
– What do you think is your minus?
– Of course, the physical. I'm a little skinny. But that's my physique. At 32, it's risky to start working more on your body.
– Is there a footballer you like to be inspired by? Who was your idol?
– When I was a child, I was fascinated by Francesco Totti. He was an idol. Very intelligent, cares a lot from the beginning. He had a lot of quality.
