Diogo Pinto, a 27-year-old midfielder playing for Dinamo, recently shared his experiences in Romania in a comprehensive interview. He discussed football, personal life, and various topics during a relaxed dialogue.
Pinto, who joined Dinamo during the summer transfer window after three successful years with Olimpija Ljubljana in Slovenia, expressed how welcoming his new environment has been. He remarked on the positive vibes around the club, contributing to their good results.
After scoring his first goal for Dinamo in a match against Farul, Pinto reflected on the challenges of winning the Romanian title, acknowledging that while it is easy to promise championships, achieving them is much more difficult. He emphasized the importance of taking things step by step in such a highly competitive league.
Pinto Compares Football Cultures
When comparing Dinamo to Olimpija Ljubljana, Pinto noted that while both clubs are significant in their respective countries, the football culture in Romania is much more intense. He shared his views on the passionate fanbase in Romania, stating that Romanian fans rival those in Portugal in their love for the game.
Pinto specifically compared Dinamo’s fans to those of Benfica, highlighting their shared passion. Despite his long-standing support for Sporting Lisbon, he expressed admiration for the fervor and dedication exhibited by Benfica supporters.
Personal Insights and Life in Romania
Before moving to Romania, Pinto was aware of Dinamo’s illustrious history, largely thanks to his father, a football enthusiast. Since arriving in București, he has found the city to be safe and welcoming, often expressing how comfortable and secure his family feels there.
He expressed excitement about exploring Romania, mentioning places like Bran Castle and the Transfăgărășan highway as must-see destinations. Pinto also shared insights about his family life, describing the joys and challenges of adjusting to a new country with his wife, Marta, and their two-year-old son, Benji.
Pinto, who plays football professionally, cherishes the time he has with his family, emphasizing the importance of being present for their growth and experiences.
Future Aspirations and Personal Goals
As for his future, Pinto aspires to expand his family while continuing to succeed in football. He expressed a desire to support his children’s dreams, whether they wish to pursue careers in sports or other fields.
Looking back on his childhood dreams, he revealed a secondary ambition of becoming a pilot, a plan that was sidelined as his football career took off. Pinto’s love for history and personal interests, including his favorite musician Drake and his fondness for the sitcom “Friends,” add depth to his personality beyond the pitch.
“One of my biggest goals is to maintain my joy for football for as long as possible, as it has been my lifelong dream.” – Diogo Pinto
