Leeds United loanee Lucas Perri didn’t have an entirely pleasant debut for Torino at the weekend.
He started against Fiorentina away from home, as Il Toro grabbed a 2-1 win. While the Brazilian made a fine save early on, Fiorentina’s second half goal came as a result of his error.
Mateo Pellegrino’s shot from outside the box sneaked in from under his arms. Perri couldn’t stop it from going in but Ignazio Abate’s side scored two late in the game to save his blushes.
The Leeds United loanee has now opened up about his life in Turin so far.
Player wants to fit in
The 28-year-old, who fell out of favour under Daniel Farke, spoke to DAZN about the transfer and his debut.
He made it clear he could have done better to deny Pellegrino’s shot from going in.
Perri said – via TifoGranata: “I’m happy with my Serie A debut: we knew how difficult it would be, even in this heat. And then against Fiorentina, who are a great team. I could have done better on Pellegrino’s shot, but I was mentally engaged the whole time, and it was a great debut.
“My teammates were there for me. I’m proud of them.”
Perri also opened up about how he is settling in. He revealed his family is still in a hotel and he wants to integrate quickly.
“I’m really happy in Turin. My family is still in a hotel like me, but we’re looking for a place to live. I’ll learn Italian as soon as possible to better integrate into this new environment.”
Our take: Integration will be key
Perri played regularly for Leeds United only in the first half of last season. He never seemed to fully settle in and that is why his integration at Torino will be very important.
He is the undisputed first-choice for Abate’s side. Besides that, the club have a lot of younger keepers in the pecking order. Perri will be seen as a leader in the dressing room and will help them develop.
Sport Witness covered how desperate Torino were to sign him in the summer. Despite ups and downs, they remained keen and it showed they have a very specific role for him in their squad.
The Whites loanee should focus on getting to grips with a new life and language quickly. It will make sure he becomes a key player and will only help Leeds United, who will earn from his permanent departure.
