The prophet Hernanes came to visit the Rocco B. Commisso Viola Park. Here’s what the former player had to say.

How are you?

“I’m great. This facility is amazing and as soon as I saw it, it made me want to start playing again.”

You’ve played in quite a few stadiums.

“Yes, but I’ve never seen anything quite as beautiful as this in Italy. I always say that had I not been a footballer, I would’ve wanted to become an engineer. I’ve always loved the subject and I even studied it. Players must love training here.”

You retired from football, but you’re still close to the football world.

“Yes, at first I wanted to move away from football, but people always pulled me back to the football world. But I’m happy to be back in this world. I have many projects. I like sharing my passion with young players. So I’m happy that football didn’t let me go.”

Have you been watching Fiorentina this season?

“My first memory is of course [Gabriel] Batistuta. I grew up watching his goals. When I joined Lazio, I remember playing so many great games. I saw many players at the centenary celebration who played an important role in my life as a footballer. I wish this club every success because they invest so much in football. It gives players everything they need to reach their full potential. I hope Fiorentina can bounce back and start aiming high again.”

Did you ever come close to joining Fiorentina?

“No one ever came up to me with an offer.”

What kind of match do you expect to see between Fiorentina and Inter?

“Playing against Fiorentina is always hard. Fiorentina’s last game was a shame because that last goal should’ve been disallowed. But Fiorentina have a lot of quality and really want to bounce back. So Inter will have to be careful because Fiorentina want to reclaim their spot.”