Ravaglia, Samp’s new shotstopper: “Happy with my choice”

Nine years after making his Serie A debut with Cesena, Nicola Ravaglia is back for another shot at the big time. And the Forli-born goalkeeper, who joined Sampdoria from Cremonese this week on a two-year contract, is determined to make the most of the opportunity.

“It’s amazing to be joining a big club like this at the age of nearly 32,” he said in his first interview. “I’m fired up and determined to put everything I have into this new adventure. I’m happy with the choice I’ve made because I think you should always look to keep growing professionally.”

Ravaglia has traded a starting jersey at Cremonese in Serie B for a new role as one of several goalkeepers behind Emil Audero at Samp but insists he’ll be all the more committed for it.

“I know what my position is here at Sampdoria but I’m not the finished product. I’ll keep on improving and do my bit for the cause. When you start behind in the pecking order you have to be on your toes at all times. It’s all about working hard every day of the week – that’s the basis for your matchday performances.

“Whenever I’ve been to Marassi as an opponent I’ve always been amazed by how passionate the fans are – they’re unique, incredible. It’s going to be great to step out there as a Sampdoria player. I just hope the fans will be there too because football loses so much without them.”