Rocha: “Samp is a dream, Cerezo is a role model”

Kaique Rocha may have joined Sampdoria from Santos, but his idol is Fabio Cannavaro and he’s a big fan of Italy’s defensive traditions.

We caught up with the 18-year-old Brazilian recently after his late move to Doria in the summer transfer window.

“I’m really grateful to the president for giving me this opportunity,” he said. “Being here is a dream come true. My father told me about Toninho Cerezo, one of the best Brazilian central midfielders ever who won the Scudetto here in the 1990/91 season. He’s definitely a role model despite him playing in a different position.”

Rocha pinpointed his speed as one of his main qualities on the pitch.

“I think I’m a quick defender with good vision,” he said. “Italian football is more tactical than Brazilian football. I can’t wait to play but right now I’m focused on learning and helping my team-mates in training. I want to learn as much as I can from them. I don’t like talking about personal objectives: we have a great group here and together we can achieve big things. I want to make the Samp fans happy.”