Super Eagles and Genk forward Rafiu Durosinmi has admitted that his short stay in Italy did not go as planned, Footynaija reports.
The Nigeria international points to a coaching change, a costly red card and Serie A’s defensive style as the main reasons behind his struggles.
The 23-year-old joined Pisa from Czech club Viktoria Plzeň in January for a club-record €11 million and made an instant impact. Just days after signing, he came off the bench to score a late equaliser against Atalanta, raising hopes that he could help Pisa avoid relegation.
Instead, that goal turned out to be his only one in 12 Serie A matches. Pisa finished bottom of the table and were relegated, before selling the Nigerian striker to Belgian side KRC Genk for €10.5 million after only six months.
Speaking to HBVL, Durosinmi said his fortunes changed soon after his dream debut.
“Nevertheless, I got off to the perfect start at Pisa. I scored on my debut against Atalanta, but two weeks later the coach, who had insisted on my arrival, was sacked. His successor took me off at half-time in his very first match, and a week later I started on the bench. I didn’t click with him; I didn’t feel comfortable in my own skin.”
His problems grew after he was sent off against Cagliari.
“I got caught out by the experienced Yerry Mina; a stupid reaction kept me sidelined for two weeks. I learned from that too.”
Durosinmi also believes Pisa’s style of play made life difficult for an attacking player.
“For me, Serie A was disappointing; everything revolves around fighting out duels and defending. The change of manager added to that, but it remains an experience that has made me stronger.”
Despite the setback, the striker remains positive.
“I am very religious and am grateful to God for giving me this opportunity to become a professional footballer. I therefore want to do everything I can to thank Him for that. I realize every day that I am a lucky man. In Lagos, there were many boys walking around who had even more talent than me, but didn’t get this chance.”
During that tough time, however, Durosinmi broke into the Super Eagles, and earned three senior caps under Éric Chelle after appearances against Zimbabwe, Jamaica and Poland.
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