Burnley fullback Vitinho had a word with his home country’s media about the Clarets’ promotion to the Premier League.
The 23-year-old was interviewed by Brazilian outlet Lance, and talked about how great it was to achieve that objective in his first season at the club.
“First, I thank Jesus. I’m very happy, it’s a unique feeling to win this title. I went through difficulties, which made me grow as a human being and an athlete. I think this title is a coronation of the work done during the season, all the dedication of the squad and the technical staff,” Vitinho told Lance.
Vitinho joined Burnley in a €1m move from Belgian side Cercle Brugge last summer. He says he didn;t struggle to adapt to England, pointing out that Vincent Kompany’s side had some features which helped him fit into the team.
“My adaptation to English football was very easy, as the club helped me a lot. The years I spent in Belgium made me learn a lot about Europeans, so that was really important too.
“In terms of football, our team has some principles that help me a lot, especially being a team that likes to have the ball all the time and that all made my adaptation here very positive, having a very good first season.”
Now aiming towards next season in the Premier League, Vitinho pointed out his dream of playing for the Brazilian national team, even though he’s keeping his feet on the ground for now.
“I always had the goal of being among the biggest clubs and athletes. The Premier League is the highest level of football, without a doubt. I have to keep working hard, because I have other goals, like getting to the national team, but for that I need to be prepared. I have a lot of faith that the next season will be brilliant and I’m looking to achieve my next goals.”
In his first season with Burnley, Vitinho has 38 appearances so far, with three goals and three assists.
Despite the guaranteed qualification to the Premier League, the Clarets still have a couple of games to play, as they face Bristol City and Cardiff City before the end of the season. Then it’s time for Kompany to get the team prepared for the top flight.
