Zafeiris: “My dream is to play with Greece in a big tournament – I always wanted to represent these colors”

O Xristos Zafeiris is one of its new faces National team.

Although she has been competing for years with her national Youth teams Norwayin recent months the new management of EPO in consultation with the new coach of our national team, Ivan Jovanovich“moved the strings” and approached the 21-year-old midfielder born in our country, who finally chose to wear the “blue and white”.

In fact, the young man was called by the Serbian coach to the team’s squad for the Nations League matches against Finland (07/09) and Ireland (10/09) and is expected to make his debut wearing the national crest.

He made statements on the official EPO channel and insisted on his desire to represent it for years Greecehis dream of doing this in a major tournament, but also the great importance of it Ivan Jovanovich in his decision.

Zafiris’ statements in detail:

How was the first day in the family of the national team?

“It was a very nice feeling. I was very happy to meet the guys. I was a little nervous because it was the first time I would meet them, but all the guys are very nice, very good. I’ve spoken to everyone and I’m very happy to be here.”

How did your teammates welcome you? Did you feel that the national team is a big hug?

“Yes, I felt it and it was very nice. I also spoke with the children, I have met some children before in K16, Koulierakis, Konstandelias, we have talked with Tzolis before the national team, so I knew two or three children and they were very nice”.

What is your next dream with the National Team?

“A dream is to continue being here, to work, to succeed with the team in going to a big World Cup, Euro tournament and represent Greece with joy.”

You have competed in the U16 with other internationals, did you ever dream that you would one day play in the Men’s National Team together?

“We were younger then, we were still taking steps, but as time went on it was definitely a thought and something really cool in the mind that has now come to fruition.”

How did you decide to compete in the National team?

“As you know, I was with the Norwegian National Team but I always felt Greek and I am Greek. I also have my family and when I was given this opportunity it was not difficult for me because I always wanted to represent this country in these colors. And when I made the first contacts with the coach, I listened to the footage a bit and I was definitely very happy because this is what I wanted to do. To represent my country in front of my family”.

What role did Jovanovic play in this decision?

“An important role. I listened a little to the plans, what he wanted, what he needs and I believe that I and all the others who are here can help him and do what the team wants”.