Melo: Inter Milan s strongest Serie A and Lautaro is the world s top three strikers, I hope the country will score many goals

In an interview, former Brazilian international Melo talked about his career in Serie A, Juventus' national derby against Inter Milan, Lautaro and other players.

Have you ever felt fear in your life?

When I was 15, I met a drug dealer on the street and pulled me aside, stared at me with a look I would never forget, and said that if he saw me wandering there again, he would shoot me. He said, "You have a bright future in football, and I don't want to see you again here." I followed him. Now I don't know what he ends up, I think he's dead. If I hadn't become a player, maybe I would have been in a bad situation. Thanks to my parents, my father is a job, my mother is a housewife, and I grew up in a difficult life.

Your nickname is Bulldog

This is my favorite nickname. But people will only remember the mistakes I made, and I actually have good skills. In the 2010 World Cup, I gave the most exciting assists, a 20-meter straight pass allowed Robinho to score in front of the goal... but I was sent off with a red card after that game.

This weekend, the Serie A will usher in the wonderful memories of Juventus' national derby against Inter Milan. I played nearly 100 games at Juventus, but I was young and immature at the time, and I made a lot of mistakes and paid for it. Every time I lose the ball, the fans will boo me. When I get home, my wife will blame me. I was like a child at that time. I would quarrel with everyone, have a bad attitude and a bit nervous personality. I also had a fight with Chiellini, and everyone knew about it. But we have reconciled now and we still greeted us warmly during this summer’s Club Cup. FIFA President Infantino was also present at the time. He was excellent and was changing football, and I admired him very much.

Inter Milan wanted to sign you in 2009

Yes, but Florence director Corvino told me "either go to Juventus or stay" and I have no choice. Juventus paid me a transfer fee of 25 million euros and added Malchioni to the transfer transaction. The Fiorentine fans reacted fiercely at the time and criticized me a lot. But my oldest daughter was born there and I love the city and the court.

No need to ask what team will you cheer for in this weekend's national derby

Inter Milan is in my heart. I kissed my wife after scoring a goal against Verona in 2015. At that time, the front page of "Escape Kiss" read "Escape Kiss" and the newspaper still remains in my house. When Mancini invited me to join Inter, I did not hesitate at all. Unfortunately, I have been playing for Inter Milan for too short.

If former Inter Milan coach Frank DeBol was in front of you, what would you say to him?

He never knew football, he had no coaching ability, and he would even deliberately mock Gabi Goal and call him "Gabi-ex-goal". He doesn't speak Italian, and he is in the locker room to make everyone unhappy. In fact, he only coached for three months, but it caused disasters everywhere. Thank God, Pioli comes afterwards.

Can this new Inter Milan impress you?

Inter Milan could have done more in the Club World Cup. However, the new coach Ziwo had just taken office at that time. After Xiao Inzaji coached the team for four years, Ziwo tried to bring something new. I like Susic and I think he can play a decisive role. Also I'm excited about F-Esposito and Dumfries, who is now in a golden age and can score the ball as soon as he touches the ball.

Do you think Lautaro is the top five striker in the world?

No...He is the top three in the world! He deserves a ranking far above seventh in last year's Golden Globes.

Can Juventus compete for the championship in the Serie A this season?

This match against Inter Milan will show whether they can compete for the championship. I watched Juventus against Manchester City in the Club World Cup, and they should be ashamed at that time. Coach Tudor doesn't drive me crazy, he doesn't seem to be anything special. He did a pretty good job, but he needed to perform better when it comes to a team like Inter.

Which team do you most like to win the championship?

Inter Milan is the strongest, but Naples is also very capable.

Who is the indispensable player for Juventus?

Bremer, last season it was because of his injury that affected Juventus.

Inter Milan is an indispensable player?

Calhanoglu, he is still the brain of the team.

What are your expectations for this national derby?

I hope to see a lot of goals.

Who do you hope to get at any cost?

Calhanoglu and Ilditz. He's playing football fascinating me and I'll take care of him at all costs.

You said a few months ago that in 2026, everyone will see Melo sitting in the coaching seat and hoping to coach in Serie A. So what is your football philosophy?

What I want is a player with courage and strength. If you don’t actively compete in the game, you will not be able to play. Not to be humble, I used to be a great player, I always struggled to grab and score goals, and there weren't many midfielders like me. As I often say, getting Melo out can be difficult, but it will be even more difficult without Melo.