Piotr Zielinski, Inter midfielder, shared in an interview with the official *Match Programme* the references that accompanied him throughout his career. The Polish player began looking to the future at a young age, taking inspiration from Czech midfielder Tomáš Rosický, known for his elegant playing style and ability to create play. Zielinski recalled that it was during his time in Italy, in Udine, that he understood that football was his path. With the Udinese Primavera he became aware of being a talent, and his first professional match in Serie A, in which he replaced Antonio Di Natale, remained etched in his memory for the great emotion he felt.
Throughout his career, the Pole has cited Marek Hamšík, a former Inter midfielder, as his most influential figure, from whom he learned a lot about both teamwork and vision of the game. Zielinski also said he faced top-level opponents such as Lionel Messi, Neymar and Cristiano Ronaldo, experiences that helped him grow as a player. Among the shirts he has worn, he said that Cristiano Ronaldo's is the most significant, especially for the role it had in his personal and professional growth.
Nationality is a theme dear to Zielinski, who remembered with particular pride Poland's victory against Sweden in the 2022 play-offs, an event that allowed his country to qualify for the World Cup in Qatar. “It's a special moment for me,” he said, underlining the importance of that achievement for his nation.
Regarding his playing style, Zielinski highlighted technique as the most fundamental quality that accompanied him. He cited Wesley Sneijder, former Inter captain, as his favorite player in the club's history, sharing a similar technical approach and vision of the game with him. Sneijder has therefore been described as a role model for the Pole, especially for his ability to read the game and create opportunities.
With Inter, Zielinski continues to work to consolidate his position within the midfield, contributing with his experience and vision of the game. The club, which is preparing for new challenges in Serie A and the Cup, looks to the future with the hope that the young midfielder can become a pillar of the team. For the Pole, the goal is to continue to grow, learn from great champions and, if possible, contribute to new successes at both club and national level.