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Everyone was surprised when Lokomotiv Moscow spent 3 million euros on Mario Mita last summer. A high figure for a left back who had just turned 19 and had played more games with AEK's second team than with the first. The first season was difficult in Russia, where Mitaj spent part of the matches on the bench, but over time, he showed that those 3 million euros were not wasted on him. This year was magical, as Mario is playing in the Russian championship more than last season, but also "armored" the left wing in the Albanian National Team.
"The most difficult match for me was against Moldova at home, because I shouldn't disappoint coach Silvinjo who trusted me", says Mitaj in an exclusive interview for "Panorama Sport". The left-back says he is lucky to play against Italy, Spain and Croatia, as he has always admired their style of play.
Mitaj, you are part of Lokomotiv Moscow, how did you end the first half of the championship in Russia?
I believe we ended the first half of the season well, we are currently in fourth place in the championship, but we are also very good in the Cup at the moment.
I see you resume in March with the matches so you will have some time off, where will you spend it?
Although I have a month of vacation, I will spend most of it with my family and friends in Greece.
If Mario plays as a midfielder as well as a left back, have you considered that you can sometimes also play as a winger when needed?
My job is to work hard and perform as well as I can in every place that the coach trusts me. Although let's face it, it's not easy to play that far forward.
How did you experience the transition from AEK, the club where you formed as a footballer, to Lokomotiv Moscow?
Normally, it is not easy to run away from your family and the place where you were born and raised and go to Russia. But I think to move forward you have to sacrifice.
National team, what was the most difficult match for you in these qualifiers?
The most difficult match for me was the one against Moldova in Albania, because it was my first match as a starter and there I thought that in no way should I disappoint coach Silvinjo who trusted me from the first minute.
What about the most beautiful and exciting?
The most beautiful match for me was the victory against the Czech Republic in Tirana. This is because there, in a way, the path to qualification for the European Championship was opened for us.
What did you think when Silvinho entrusted you with the formation against Moldova in June?
A very good feeling and definitely a dream come true. At the same time, it is also a task for me to work to the maximum and justify myself.
Honestly, did you ever think it could be such a successful year?
Regardless of the wishes, to be honest, I don't believe that things would go so well for me. Thanks to the National Team for trusting me, everything went well and I thank them very much for the opportunity they gave me.
Qualifying for the European Championship was an achievement, especially when you are 20 years old. What is Mario Mitaj's objective for 2024?
My objective is that at the 2024 European Championship in Germany we go and enjoy those matches, giving our best on the pitch and going into each one to get points.
Spain, Italy and Croatia, a comment on the opponents of the group?
I am very lucky to play against these teams. I've always liked them for the way they play, although it makes it difficult for us, but the good thing is to reach and beat the strongest.
Are you a bit used to the Moscow cold?
I have started to acclimatize, but the climate difference is very big from Greece, where I grew up, compared to Russia./Panorama Sport
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