Title: Spanish Keeper Adan Responds to Coaching Commentary, Emphasizes Professionalism and Personal Drive
In a recent and wide-ranging interview, Esteghlal FC’s Spanish goalkeeper, Antonio Adan, addressed his career and the dynamics within Iranian football, offering a perspective marked by professionalism and respect for the sporting environment.
A Warm Welcome to Esteghlal
Adan reflected positively on his arrival at the prestigious Iranian club, stating, “The first day I came to Esteghlal, they welcomed me with open arms.” He specifically highlighted the support from the team captain, Rouzbeh, noting the swift integration process ahead of a major cup final. His decision to join Esteghlal was a deliberate one, driven by the club’s stature. “When Esteghlal made me an offer this year and I did my research, I was very happy that this offer had come from one of the top teams in the Iranian league,” Adan explained.
On Professional Dynamics and Team Role
When questioned about his initial discussions with head coach Ricardo Sá Pinto regarding his role, Adan defended the coach’s professional approach. “Mr. Sá Pinto is a professional coach. He told me we need a goalkeeper and we have an empty spot that only you can fill,” Adan recounted. He elaborated that a professional coach would not make absolute promises from the outset, emphasizing that “everything depends on the team’s conditions and the head coach’s opinion.”
Adan also revealed a pre-existing, friendly relationship with Sá Pinto from their time in Portugal, adding a layer of personal understanding to their professional partnership.
Addressing External Commentary with Poise
The interview touched upon recent public statements by other figures in the league. In a measured response to commentary from Tractor FC’s coach, Dragan Skočić, Adan demonstrated maturity. Skočić had suggested that signing a young goalkeeper was preferable to one with merely a “big name,” a remark many interpreted as a veiled reference to Adan.
Adan’s reply was both diplomatic and resolute: “Everyone’s opinion is respected, and expressing personal views drives progress.” He confidently addressed the underlying suggestion about his age, stating, “I am approaching 37 years old, but I have good physical and mental readiness… I really see that I am in a condition where I can show my best energy level and I feel I can continue healthy competition.”
Reflecting on a Storied Career
Adan also shared insights from his celebrated tenure in European football. He confirmed a famous anecdote where José Mourinho had once claimed Adan performed better than Iker Casillas, calling it a statement that “caused an uproar” but one that any player would be proud to hear from such a renowned manager.
When asked to name the best coach he has worked with, Adan placed his current manager, Jorge Jesus (Amorim), in the top position, with Mourinho as a close second, praising their abilities to assess players and build connections.
Through his comments, Antonio Adan presents the image of a seasoned professional focused on his contribution to Esteghlal, embracing healthy competition, and respecting the diverse opinions that shape the world of professional sports.